BCB strongly denies physical abuse allegations against Nigar Sultana Joty

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has strongly denied allegations of physical abuse made by fast bowler Jahanara Alam against the national women’s team captain, Nigar Sultana Joty. Alam, who has not played international cricket since December 2024, alleged in an interview with Bangladeshi newspaper Kaler Kantho that Sultana had physically assaulted some teammates.

Nigar Sultana recently led Bangladesh during the 2025 Women’s World Cup, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka. Bangladesh placed seventh out of eight teams after just one victory against Pakistan, but they gave competitive games against England, South Africa, and Sri Lanka. The team struggled, but Sultana was commended for her calmness as captain and her performances.

In response to Alam’s allegations, the BCB released an official response, firmly rejecting the accusations and suggesting they were false. “The BCB categorically and strongly refutes these allegations, which are baseless, fabricated and devoid of any truth. The Board finds it unfortunate that such derogatory and scandalous claims have been made at a time when the Bangladesh Women's Team is showing commendable progress and unity on the international stage,” the statement read, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.

BCB Backs Team and Leadership

The board further stated that the timing and intent of the remarks appeared to be deliberate and ill-intentioned, aimed at damaging team morale. “The Board believes that the timing and nature of these comments are deliberate, ill-intentioned and seemingly aimed at undermining the spirit and confidence of a team that continues to represent the country with pride,” the BCB added.

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“It is deeply disappointing that an individual who currently has no involvement or relevance in the plans of Bangladesh cricket has chosen to make such misleading statements in public. The BCB wishes to make it clear that it has complete trust and confidence in the Women's National Team's leadership, players and management. The Board has found no evidence to support any of the claims made and stands firmly behind the team and its personnel,” it said.

Sultana, who had a solid individual campaign at the World Cup with 150 runs, continues to be a key figure in Bangladesh women’s cricket. With 1,474 runs in 60 ODI innings, she remains a pillar of stability for her side. The Bangladesh women’s team is currently on a break following the World Cup but will resume action in December with a white-ball tour of world champions India Women.