BCB imposes restrictions on journalists' access to stadium
Dhaka, January 31
Amid the controversy surrounding Bangladesh's participation in the T20 World Cup cricket in India, the Bangladesh Cricket Board on Saturday imposed restrictions on the entry of Bangladeshi journalists into the stadium.
"As part of the ongoing security enhancement measures at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium (SBNCS) and its surrounding premises, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) wishes to advise that revised entry regulations are being introduced, which will be effective from now on", BCB said in a statement.
"These measures will be applicable to all persons, including the media representatives, entering the stadium complex", it added.
Under the revised arrangements, members of the media are requested to note that:
a) For the Media, Gate 1 is the exclusive entry point to the SBNCS.
b) Access for the media to the SBNCS will be facilitated only on the following occasions:
- Match Days- Official Press Conferences- Events held upon formal invitation from the BCB- Specific Practice/Training Sessions as communicated by the BCB
"The Bangladesh Cricket Board sincerely seeks the understanding and cooperation of all concerned to ensure the smooth implementation of these measures in the broader interest of safety, security and orderly operations at the venue and the BCB offices", the statement said
The development follows the International Cricket Council (ICC) replacing Bangladesh with Scotland for the upcoming T20 Men's World Cup 2026, which starts on February 7. (ANI).
— ANI
Reader Comments
Very unfortunate for Bangladeshi cricket fans and journalists. The media plays a crucial role in connecting fans to the game. Hope this is a temporary measure and normal access is restored soon. 🤞
From an Indian perspective, we've seen our boards (BCCI) manage security without shutting out the press. This looks like damage control after the ICC's decision. Bad timing, BCB!
Security protocols are necessary in today's world, but they must be balanced with press freedom. The statement sounds very bureaucratic. Hope the journalists' concerns are heard.
Yaar, this is a classic case of locking the stable after the horse has bolted. The team is out of the World Cup, and now they are worried about stadium security? Priorities seem misplaced.
As a cricket lover, I feel for the fans and journalists in Bangladesh. The sport needs a free press to thrive. This move won't help rebuild confidence after the ICC's tough call.
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