Photo: BSS

THAKURGAON, Nov 20, 2025 (BSS) – Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) Director Asif Akbar has emphasized the board’s commitment to expanding cricket development beyond the capital as he visited Thakurgaon District Stadium on Thursday as part of a long-term nationwide infrastructure plan.

During his visit on Thursday morning to the Shaheed Mohammad Ali Stadium, an age-based cricket development programme was organized by the District Sports Association where Asif Akbar attended as the chief guest.

“We want to spread cricket not only in Dhaka but also outside Dhaka. For this, we have been visiting districts across the country to understand the real condition of cricket. The state of the cricket board is much better than before,” he said.

Praising the condition of Thakurgaon Stadium, he said that the district holds significant potential for cricket.

However, he highlighted several infrastructural needs, including a separate dressing room for girls, an indoor playground, improved training facilities, net practice arrangements, and overall ground renovation.
 
He assured that all necessary support and materials would be provided through the BCB soon.
Addressing social concerns, Asif Akbar said, “Being a border district, Thakurgaon is far ahead in terms of drug-related problems. We are working with students—from schools to madrasas—to save the youth from the scourge of drugs.”
 
He added that separate age-based sections are being created to provide sports facilities for children and encouraged cooperation from all stakeholders.

BCB Director Hasanuzzaman, GD Member Secretary Armanul Islam, BCB umpire Shakir, and others also spoke at the event.