The Dhaka Third Division Cricket Qualifier has officially commenced at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur. This year’s tournament features a significant field of 1,400 players representing 70 different teams, all vying for one of the two spots available for advancement to the next round of the competition.
Responding to past criticisms regarding the participation of older players in the third division, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has implemented a stringent new age policy. Moinuddin Chowdhury, Chairman of the Cricket Committee of Dhaka Metropolis (CCDM), confirmed after the tournament’s grand opening ceremony that the board has established a maximum age limit of 25 for all participants. He emphasized that the board is strictly enforcing this ceiling, noting that no player exceeding 25 years of age will be permitted to take the field.
Addressing historical concerns surrounding match-fixing and irregularities in the third division, the CCDM has taken proactive steps to ensure integrity. Moinuddin Chowdhury stated that the committee has held comprehensive discussions with all relevant departments and match officials. According to the chairman, the board has implemented robust protection measures to ensure the tournament remains beyond reproach. He urged the media to attend and observe the matches firsthand, asserting that all officials and departments involved are fully committed to a zero-tolerance policy regarding misconduct.
The CCDM chairman further clarified that the tournament will be free from external pressures or undue influence. He expressed confidence that the competition would be conducted with complete transparency, reiterating that the board would not tolerate any interference from influential figures. By coordinating closely with umpires and stakeholders, the BCB aims to ensure that the entire event is conducted fairly and securely, with an unwavering focus on upholding the integrity of the sport.
