Shahadat suspended

Pacer Shahadat Hossain,  accused of torturing a house-help and currently on the run, has been temporarily suspended by the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB).

The BCB made the announcement through a press release yesterday.

“The BCB has temporarily suspended cricketer Kazi Shahadat Hossain from participating in any activity under the Board's jurisdiction including playing in competitions and using facilities for training and rehabilitation.

“The BCB's decision was prompted by recent reports of alleged criminal offences involving the player which are being investigated by the police,” stated the press release.

Explaining the BCB's decision, CEO Nizamuddin Chowdhury said, “We have taken the usual route in dealing with such matters. The BCB has a zero tolerance policy on acts of indiscretion by registered cricket players and we have noted the serious allegations against Shahadat.”

“We will not try to draw conclusions as this matter is still being investigated. However, he will not be allowed to play in BCB events or train with BCB support until further notice because the accusations have embarrassed the board,” he added.   

During a programme in the capital on Saturday, BCB president Nazmul Hassan Papon told the media that the pacer, if guilty, would not receive any support from the board. He further added that he had declined to meet Shahadat when the pacer had come to see him.

Earlier last week, Shahadat's 11-year-old house help alleged that Shahadat and his wife had tortured her. A case has been filed with the Mirpur Police Station against the couple under the Women and Children Repression and Prevention Act.