Former Bangladesh cricket captain Tamim Iqbal has dismissed any concerns regarding a potential conflict of interest stemming from his dual role as the captain of Mohammedan Sporting Club (MSC) and his involvement with Gulshan Cricket Club (GCC) as an organizer in the upcoming Bashundhara Dhaka Premier League (BDPL).
With MSC set to face GCC in one of the opening matches of the DPL on March 3, Tamim addressed media questions regarding the overlap of his responsibilities. “I am not the owner of GCC—there’s a big difference,” Tamim clarified, countering suggestions that his involvement with both teams might pose an issue. “You (the media) have created this narrative. I’m simply part of the team,” he added.
Tamim was quick to defend his position when asked if leading one team while being associated with another might have implications. “What’s wrong with it?” he responded, humorously adding, “If I get out early against Gulshan, will you say I did it on purpose?”
The cricketer explained that his role with GCC was primarily focused on securing sponsorships to provide financial support for players, ensuring they had opportunities in the league. “I don’t see any conflict of interest because I don’t own the team. The most you can say is that I helped bring in sponsors. Without sponsors, many players wouldn’t have a team,” he said.
Tamim emphasized the financial challenges facing domestic cricket, stressing that sponsorships are essential to the survival of the sport. “If sponsors don’t step forward, player payments will be halved. Without sponsorships, cricket itself will suffer,” he warned. He urged the media to focus on the positives and the bigger picture, which includes supporting the players and the game.
