Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) ad-hoc committee head Tamim Iqbal has introduced a lifetime “captains’ card” for current and former national team captains, describing it as a small but meaningful step to recognize their contribution to the game, reports Daily Sun.
“This card is not something very big—certainly not compared to what all of you have given to Bangladesh cricket. But this is a start,” Tamim said at the unveiling ceremony on Thursday.
Tamim admitted that many cricketers, including himself, had experienced moments of discomfort regarding recognition and access.
“There was always an insecurity—what if I go to the ground and I’m not recognized, or stopped at the gate? Will my respect be maintained? I have felt this myself at times, and I’m sure many of you have as well. It’s unfortunate that those who built Bangladesh cricket even have to think like this,” he said.
The former captain stressed that such situations would no longer be acceptable under his leadership.
“I don’t want to see a Bangladesh captain making a phone call for a ticket or standing in line to collect one. As long as I am here, that will not happen,” he said.
The captains’ card will serve as a lifetime access pass to all cricket events in Bangladesh, including international matches, ICC and ACC tournaments, the Bangladesh Premier League, and domestic competitions.
“From today, this card is your identity. Wherever cricket is played in Bangladesh, this will be your pass,” Tamim said.
He added that while captains will continue to receive match tickets, those will now be reserved for family members.
“For you, there can be no ticket that matches your contribution. This is just a small gesture of respect,” he noted.
Beyond access, the card also includes priority parking at venues—an issue Tamim said had long been overlooked.
“I’ve seen captains walking in from outside, even being pushed in crowds. That cannot happen. In Mirpur, the VVIP space—there is no one more deserving than you,” he said.
Tamim also announced health benefits for captains, including medical support equivalent to that of current national players.
“Once a captain retires—or even for those already retired—they will receive health insurance like national team cricketers. The BCB medical team will be available 24/7. You won’t need to call anyone or take appointments—that will be our responsibility,” he said.
The board will also assist with overseas medical arrangements if required.
Looking ahead, Tamim said the initiative would continue to evolve.
“As the BCB grows, this card will grow. We will keep adding benefits and making it more meaningful,” he said.
Tamim revealed that he had personally reached out to several former captains who were unable to attend the event, including Mashrafe Bin Mortaza, Shakib Al Hasan, Aminul Islam Bulbul and Naimur Rahman Durjay.
“The cards are ready for all of you. Whenever you are available, please accept this from us. Your contribution to Bangladesh cricket is immense,” he said.
Avoiding any reference to recent boardroom tensions, Tamim ended with a unifying message.
“We are all cricketers, and I respect each and every one of you. This is just a small way to show that respect,” he added.
Bd-Pratidin English/ AM
