Chandika Hathurusinghe has been suspended by the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) for allegedly physically bribing the national team cricketer Nasum Ahmed during the 2023 World Cup and spending holiday outside the rules. BCB president Farooq Ahmed informed the media about his dismissal on October 15, informing him to show reasons within 48 hours.
BCB called an emergency board meeting on Zoom on Thursday (October 17) and passed the decision to dismiss. The contract until the 2025 Champions Trophy was cancelled. After hearing about the dismissal, Hathurusinghe said he would open up the matter. Finally, this Lankan coach gave a long explanation about BCB’s complaint. Presented to the readers of RisingBD.
‘I am writing this letter regarding the recent allegations calling into question my integrity and professionalism regarding the alleged assault on a player during the 2023 World Cup match and the claim of taking extra leave without permission. I cannot remain silent on this without challenging such assumptions. I believe, such things need to be clarified. I want to say my words.
First, the alleged incident took place in the players’ dugout or dressing room, which is under constant surveillance during World Cup matches. More than 40 to 50 cameras capture every moment of the game instantly. I have not had an opportunity to verify the complainant, nor have I found any witnesses, if any.’
‘Another point is that, as serious as the incident is claimed to be, it is surprising that the player concerned did not report the incident to the team manager or any authority immediately after the event. If a complaint was made, I wonder why I was not questioned or questioned. The question arises, why it was published by a person on YouTube after a few months?
Regarding leave claims, I would like to clarify that I have always sought and received permission from both the CEO and the Chairman of Cricket Operations while personally taking leave. At no point did BCB tell me that they were unhappy with my leave. Rather, every time I have asked for leave, BCB has granted it. I never went on vacation without their permission.
The new board members complained that I took too much time off. My holiday does not include public holidays, such as Eid, Fridays. When I wasn’t there during public holidays, they didn’t wave. I understand that, as per labor law of Bangladesh, I claim to get that leave later for work done on Friday. As a BCB employee, I get half a day off on Friday and Thursday together.’
Another thing to remember is that it is a common practice for foreign coaches to take leave during the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL). This is not an exception for me but it is an accepted fact for many foreign coaches before my tenure.
I think these allegations are premeditated. On the first day of the new president’s term, he made a public statement expressing his desire to remove the head coach. I was shocked to receive the shock notice just four hours before another head coach was hired. It says that you have only 48 hours to prove yourself innocent. The sequence of events raises serious questions about the motive behind these actions.
I have been asked to leave Bangladesh out of concern for my safety due to the strange situation. These allegations, the hasty appointment of a new head coach and the lack of due process are raising serious concerns about the intentions of the new management and the conduct of staff within the BCB.
I am determined to uphold my honor and fully cooperate with any investigation into this matter. In the end truth will prevail, and I will be able to contribute positively to the game of my love.’
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