Former Bangladesh player banned over sexual assault and inappropriate behaviour allegations shocking cricket world

The Bangladesh Cricket Board has barred former cricketer Monjurul Islam from any direct or indirect participation in cricket within its jurisdiction after serious misconduct allegations surfaced. Former national women’s captain, Jahanara Alam, filed a complaint against the individual named in the complaint alleging sexual assault and inappropriate conduct against her during the 2022 Women’s ODI World Cup. At that time, he was serving as a selector and manager for the women’s team. In response to this complaint, the BCB has put together an independent evaluation committee to thoroughly examine all of the evidence presented and make a determination about any discipline regarding the allegations. This demonstrates the cricket board's serious approach towards displicine, its commitment to upholding professional standards and player safety, as well as the overall accountability within cricket.

The Investigative Committee consisted of Justice Tariq Ul Hakim and three other members, and was tasked with reviewing four different allegations of inappropriate behaviour. After conducting a thorough review over several months, the committee made mixed findings, with two allegations failing to meet the burden of proof (due to insufficient evidence) and, however, the committee found one of both of the remaining allegations to be of prima facie nature and, therefore, found that the person had violated the standards for professional conduct and violated the community standard for harassment. The board moved for disclipline even though the person was already out of contract (contract expired June 30, 2025) at the time, because of the BCB's belief that there was still sufficient cause to impose discipline. The BCB Board of Directors, after a meeting at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium, imposed a full ban and stated that additional discipline may be imposed if the Investigation Committee makes further recommendations.

"Based on the findings of the Independent Inquiry Committee formed by the BCB to examine the complaint lodged by former Bangladesh Women's National Team Captain Jahanara Alam, the Board has decided to impose a ban on former national cricketer Monjurul Islam from all forms of direct or indirect employment and/or cricket-related activities under the jurisdiction of the Bangladesh Cricket Board. The BCB is reviewing the recommendations of the Committee and will take any additional measures deemed necessary in light of the report," BCB said in a statement.

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Governance Focus After Ban

The decision has sparked wider debate about governance and accountability within the Bangladesh cricket system, particularly regarding the women’s structure. Critics had previously questioned how the Bangladesh Cricket Board handled sensitive internal matters, so this firm action is being viewed as an effort to restore credibility and demonstrate transparency. Although the inquiry was extended several times, officials maintained that the delays were necessary to ensure procedural fairness and a thorough review. The outcome, they insist, reflects an intention to prioritize integrity, player welfare, and institutional responsibility across all levels of administration.

As preparations for the inaugural Women’s Bangladesh Premier League (Apr 4-14, 2026) continued across Dhaka and Chattogram, the controversy emerged. At the same time that the board has confirmed the new league, they also gave selection committee chairman Gazi Ashraf Hossain a further month to find his replacement. According to officials, it is crucial that Gazi remain until his successor is appointed and that there is continuity during the transition, so there will be adequate planning and making of team rosters and operational directions through a period of heightened scrutiny due to the troubled nature of recent disciplinary actions.