Bangladesh has withdrawn from the 2026 T20 World Cup, but the country is focusing on strengthening its local Cricket framework. According to a report by Cricbuzz, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) held a detailed meeting at the Sher-e-Bangla Stadium on February 4 to evaluate the current state of grassroots cricket in the nation.
The review aims to enhance the foundational structure of Bangladesh cricket, including youth categories, ensuring that players and coaches have clear pathways for development through training, mentorship, and exposure. This will help them advance to higher levels such as state, national, or International cricket.
One key outcome of the discussions was the proposal to start a National Cricket Academy program for Under-23 players, which will be part of a wider development framework.
In an official statement released on February 4, the BCB mentioned that coaches helping players develop will receive special incentives. The statement included the following:
“The meeting reviewed the existing structure of grassroots and age-group cricket, assessing its effectiveness and identifying key areas for improvement. Particular emphasis was placed on revisiting the age-group selection process and conducting a thorough evaluation of current age verification procedures to ensure transparency and credibility.”
The statement continued:
“Among the major points discussed was the proposal to introduce an incentive system for coaches who successfully develop players within their respective domains. The meeting also highlighted the significance of establishing a comprehensive player database to support long-term planning and performance tracking.”
Further, the statement addressed:
“Issues related to the salary structure of divisional and district coaches were discussed, along with the need for a clear and structured career pathway for coaches to ensure professional growth. It was agreed that a Curriculum Review Committee should be formed to reassess and update the existing training curriculum for coaches.”
Eight Cricket Hubs to Be Set Up in Bangladesh
Additionally, BCB officials announced plans to establish eight cricket hubs, along with 137 working pitches. This initiative will be executed in phases, with Khulna, Barishal, Fatullah, Cox’s Bazar, Bogura, Rajshahi, BKSP, and Purbachal being the selected areas.
According to the plans, Barishal will receive the most wickets at 23, followed by BSP grounds with 19, Khulna with 15, Fatullah and Purbachal with 13 each, Rajshahi with 12, Bogura with 10, and Cox’s Bazar with 8.
The pitches, practice areas, and outfields are expected to be ready by May-June. BCB officials indicated that successfully implementing this plan would facilitate the organization of district leagues for the upcoming season.
BCB director Abdur Razzak remarked:
“From a cricketing perspective, this is a significant initiative. If we can make this work, completing the first phase by June will allow for smoother organization of leagues outside Dhaka next season.”
