Bangladesh players received death threats over World Cup stance, says CWAB chief Mohammad Mithun

Bangladesh Cricketers’ Welfare Association (CWAB) president Mohammad Mithun has said he received death threats for defending national team players who were criticised by a senior Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) official, amid uncertainty over the team’s participation in the upcoming T20 World Cup.

Speaking to Cricbuzz, Mithun said the players are keen to play in the World Cup, starting early next month, but are deeply concerned about their safety. Bangladesh has sought to move its league-stage matches from India to Sri Lanka, citing security fears.

Tensions escalated after BCB director Najmul Islam reportedly warned that players would not be paid if Bangladesh withdrew from the World Cup, prompting players to boycott matches in the ongoing Bangladesh Premier League (BPL).

“I’ve never experienced anything like this in my life,” Mithun said. “I have never spoken against the country. I only spoke in the interest of cricket and the players.”

He said the threats were not limited to him alone. “It’s not just me. Other players have also received threats in different forms. My number is public because I speak to the media on behalf of CWAB, so I receive more messages and calls,” he added, noting that he has not yet informed the BCB or approached law enforcement.

Mithun stressed that CWAB’s position is focused on player welfare. “We don’t want anyone to go and play under a life threat. At the same time, a World Cup is a World Cup, and the players want to play. I believe the board and the government will take a decision keeping players’ safety in mind,” he said.