Home / Sports / Umpire's India Duty Sparks Bangladesh Cricket Controversy
Umpire's India Duty Sparks Bangladesh Cricket Controversy
11 Jan
Summary
- An umpire is officiating in India despite Bangladesh's security concerns.
- The umpire has an ICC contract, allowing independent duty.
- No objection certificate is not required for ICC assignments.
Umpire Sharfuddoula Ibne Shahid Saikat's presence in India for an ongoing ODI series has sparked debate, particularly as the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has cited security concerns for not sending their team. Saikat, an ICC-contracted elite umpire, is serving as a match official in the India-New Zealand series, a move that has drawn attention given the prevailing diplomatic tensions between the cricket boards.
BCB's umpire department chairman Iftekhar Rahman clarified that Saikat does not require a no-objection certificate from the board. According to his employment contract, Saikat is automatically granted leave for any ICC assignments. This provision ensures his availability for international duties without needing BCB approval, highlighting the distinct nature of his ICC contract.
Saikat also holds the position of Head of BCB's Umpire Education Department. He, along with another umpire Gazi Sohel, is expected to officiate in the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup, scheduled to be held in India and Sri Lanka, further underscoring his international commitments.
