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In a dramatic escalation shaking the foundations of Bangladesh cricket, veteran player Mohammad Mithun has emerged as the vocal leader of a nationwide boycott against the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB).

As president of the Cricketers’ Welfare Association of Bangladesh (CWAB), Mithun has spearheaded protests demanding the resignation of BCB director M. Najmul Islam following derogatory remarks against players.

The crisis has led to postponed matches and raised serious security concerns, including death threats directed at Mithun and others.

Who Is Mohammad Mithun?

Mohammad Mithun Ali, born on March 2, 1991, is a seasoned right-handed batsman and occasional off-break bowler who has represented Bangladesh internationally since 2014.

He made his T20I debut against Sri Lanka on February 12, 2014, and has played 26 T20Is, 34 ODIs, and 5 Tests, with his last international appearance in 2021.

Domestically, Mithun has been a prolific performer, captaining teams like Sylhet Strikers in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) in 2024 and joining Chittagong Kings for the 2025 season.

His career highlights include topping run charts in domestic leagues and earning medals at the Asian Games (2010, 2014) and South Asian Games (2010).

Beyond the field, Mithun’s role as CWAB president has positioned him as a key advocate for player rights, amplifying voices in a sport often marred by administrative disputes.

The Spark Of The Controversy

The unrest ignited when BCB director M. Najmul Islam (also referred to as Nazmul Islam or Naimul Islam in reports) made disparaging comments about players, labeling them in ways that the cricket fraternity deemed unacceptable.

Mithun described the remarks as deeply hurtful, prompting an immediate call for Najmul’s resignation and a public apology.

In an emergency press conference on January 15, 2026, Mithun issued an ultimatum: all cricket activities, including BPL matches, would halt if demands were not met by 1:00 PM that day.

This follows broader tensions, including the withdrawal of pacer Mustafizur Rahman from the Indian Premier League (IPL) amid reports of attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh, which fueled security fears for international travel.

Players’ Response And Boycott Impact

Bangladesh cricketers, united under CWAB, have boycotted matches across leagues.

Two BPL games and several Dhaka League fixtures were postponed on January 16, 2026, disrupting the domestic calendar.

Mithun emphasized that the boycott would continue until demands are fulfilled, stating, “We will play only if our demands are met.” National team captain Najmul Hossain Shanto has echoed this stance, highlighting the collective resolve.

The action has drawn widespread support from players but also criticism, with some viewing it as a necessary stand for dignity in the sport.

Death Threats And BCB’s Reaction

Amid the protests, Mithun revealed receiving life-threatening calls and voice notes, marking a “first-time experience” in his career.

He told media outlets, “I have never had an experience like this… When have I ever spoken against the country?” Other players have reported similar threats, escalating fears.

The BCB has acknowledged the claims, promising a thorough investigation and support for affected players.

Director Iftekhar Rahman stated the board is taking the threats seriously, amid late-night negotiations.

Mithun has not yet approached law enforcement but expressed uncertainty about next steps.

Broader Implications For Bangladesh Cricket

This crisis arrives just weeks before the T20 World Cup, set to begin next month.

Bangladesh has requested that their preliminary matches be shifted from India to Sri Lanka due to security concerns, prioritizing player safety.

Mithun affirmed the team’s desire to compete but not under threat, urging the BCB and government to act.

Key Insights

Player Welfare at Stake: This boycott underscores longstanding issues in cricket governance, where administrative overreach often sidelines athlete rights. Mithun’s leadership could pave the way for stronger player unions in South Asian cricket.
Potential Long-Term Effects: If unresolved, the standoff might delay the BPL season and impact national team preparations, potentially affecting Bangladesh’s performance in global tournaments.
Timely Update: As of January 17, 2026, negotiations continue, with no resolution announced. The BCB faces pressure to balance authority with accountability.

This unfolding saga highlights the fragile balance between passion for the game and institutional respect.