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In an unprecedented turn of events, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has launched a formal investigation into a potential match-fixing incident during a Dhaka Premier League (DPL) match between Shinepukur Cricket Club and Gulshan Tigers. The controversy stems from a strange dismissal that has set social media abuzz and raised serious questions about the integrity of the game.
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What Happened?
In what was a do-or-die match for Shinepukur, chasing a modest target of 179, the side needed just six runs from 43 balls with one wicket in hand. Wicketkeeper-batter Minhajul Abedin, unbeaten on 8 off 34 deliveries, suddenly stepped out of his crease to a wide delivery from spinner Naeem Islam.
Abedin’s actions stunned viewers and commentators alike: instead of attempting to play the ball or return to safety, he deliberately grounded his bat outside the crease and then dragged it even further away, seemingly allowing himself to be stumped. Gulshan wicketkeeper Alif Hasan missed the stumping on the first try but succeeded on the second, securing a dramatic five-run win.
The loss meant Shinepukur were relegated from the Dhaka Premier League’s top division—making the bizarre dismissal even more suspicious.
Commentator Left Shocked
Live on air, commentator Mazhar Uddin Omi voiced what every viewer was thinking:
“This is shocking. I have never seen anything like this before.”
The clip of Abedin’s dismissal quickly went viral, with fans and former players calling for a deep investigation.
BCB Takes Action
Reacting swiftly, the BCB issued an official statement on Thursday:
“The BCB Anti-Corruption Unit and the League’s Technical Committee have promptly initiated an investigation into the alleged irregularities associated with the match. The BCB remains committed to ensuring fairness and discipline in all cricketing activities under its jurisdiction.”
This case is being treated with urgency given the high stakes and visible nature of the incident. If proven, this could become one of the most shocking match-fixing cases in Bangladesh domestic cricket history.
What’s at Stake?
- Shinepukur’s Relegation: The loss sealed their demotion, making the nature of the dismissal critical.
- Abedin’s Future: With a decent List A record (583 runs in 21 games at 30.68), this controversy could have a lasting impact on Minhajul Abedin’s career if wrongdoing is proven.
- Dhaka Premier League’s Reputation: As Bangladesh’s premier 50-over competition, the integrity of the DPL is under the scanner.
What’s Next?
The last round of the DPL’s regular season concludes next week, followed by the Super League phase among the top six teams. Meanwhile, the cricketing world waits anxiously for the findings of the BCB’s investigation.
With the DPL under the spotlight, this case could be a pivotal moment for anti-corruption measures in Bangladesh cricket. Whether this was a moment of sheer misjudgment or something more sinister remains to be seen.
