The first match of the Dhaka Premier Division Cricket League between Brothers Union and Agrani Bank was stopped under bizarre circumstances on Friday after Brothers refused to play the game over late payment by the sponsors. The match was to be played at BKSP ground but it was awarded as a walkover in favour of Agrani Bank after the Brothers Union players refused to take the field.
The players went to the venue but refused to play in protest against unpaid dues which have long been overdue, according to reports. That decision meant the match had ended without a ball being bowled and left Agrani Bank with an easy win and all the points.
The matter spotlights a continuous issue that has influenced Brothers Union over various seasons. Footballers connected with the club have spoken time after time about unpaid wages, and late payments. Some partial settlements have happened from time to time, but a permanent resolution has yet to take place and leaving players and staff frustrated.
The situation escalated when Brothers Union captain Zahiduzzaman did not appear for the scheduled toss. Match referee Enayet Chowdhury was present on the field alongside umpires Moniruzzaman and Shaheen Shareef, but the absence of the captain and the team’s refusal to participate left officials with little choice. Following the league regulations, the umpires officially declared the match a walkover in favor of Agrani Bank.
The incident has once again drawn attention to the financial challenges faced by some clubs competing in Bangladesh’s premier List A tournament. Player welfare and timely payments remain important concerns, with many believing stronger measures are needed to prevent similar situations in the future.
For Brothers Union, the forfeited match represents more than just the loss of league points. It serves as a public demonstration of the players’ dissatisfaction with the ongoing payment delays and their demand for a lasting solution. Whether the latest protest leads to meaningful action from the club management or cricket authorities remains to be seen.
