The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) took the solemn decision to cancel a crucial double-header in the ongoing Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) on Tuesday. This move came as a mark of respect following the demise of the country's former Prime Minister, Begum Khaleda Zia, who passed away earlier the same day.
Last-Minute Postponement of Key Fixtures
The announcement from the board arrived merely hours before the first match was set to begin. The afternoon clash between Sylhet Titans and Chattogram Royals at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium was called off. Subsequently, the evening fixture featuring Dhaka Capitals and Rangpur Riders, scheduled at the same venue, was also postponed. The BCB confirmed that both matches would be rescheduled, with new dates to be announced in the coming days.
BCB Pays Tribute to a Political Leader and Cricket Patron
In an official statement, the cricket board expressed deep condolences and highlighted Khaleda Zia's significant role in the sport's development in Bangladesh. The BCB acknowledged her "constant blessings and good wishes" for the progress of cricket in the nation. It further noted that during her tenure as Prime Minister, Zia provided exceptional support for cricket's growth. Her contributions were instrumental in strengthening the sport's infrastructure and promoting it across the country.
"In respect of the nation’s mourning and in honour of Begum Khaleda Zia’s legacy, today’s scheduled BPL matches have been cancelled and will be rescheduled," the BCB's statement read.
The Passing of a Former Prime Minister
Begum Khaleda Zia, aged 80, died in the early hours of Tuesday at Evercare Hospital in Dhaka. According to a statement from her party, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), she passed away around 6 am local time, shortly after the Fajr prayer. The former Prime Minister had been undergoing prolonged medical treatment for multiple health conditions.
The cancellation of high-profile sporting events underscores the national sentiment of loss. It reflects the deep impact of Khaleda Zia's legacy, which extended into the realm of sports administration and development. The BCB's decision prioritizes national mourning while ensuring the league's fixtures will be completed at a more appropriate time.
