Following late-night negotiations between the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) and representatives of the nation's cricketers, a boycott that threatened to derail the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) has been called off. The players had initiated the boycott in protest of disparaging comments made by BCB director M Nazmul Islam, demanding his resignation and a public apology.

The dispute stemmed from remarks made by Islam regarding player compensation if Bangladesh were to withdraw from the upcoming T20 World Cup in India. He also labeled former captain Tamim Iqbal an "Indian agent" for advocating dialogue with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) regarding the World Cup venue deadlock. These comments ignited a firestorm, leading to the postponement of BPL and Dhaka Premier League matches.

The BCB responded by removing Islam from his position as chairman of the finance committee. They also issued him a show-cause notice, requiring a written response within 48 hours, after which disciplinary proceedings would continue. However, the players pressed for a public apology and his removal as a board director.

CWAB (Cricketers' Welfare Association of Bangladesh) president Mohammad Mithun stated that the players agreed to resume participation in the BPL following assurances from the BCB that their demands would be addressed. He also acknowledged the "unfortunate incidents" that had taken place. The CWAB welcomed Islam's removal from the finance committee but insisted on a public apology. They stated their willingness to allow the BCB time to follow due process regarding Islam's directorship.

Under pressure, Islam issued a public apology, which the CWAB accepted. With the apology and the BCB's actions, the players agreed to call off the boycott, allowing the BPL to resume. The BPL will resume with revised dates. The postponed matches were rescheduled, and the tournament is set to continue.

The BCB and CWAB issued a joint apology to fans for the disruption and the postponement of matches. The BCB reiterated its commitment to prioritizing the interests of the cricketers and maintaining professionalism. The board also assured that steps had been taken to refund tickets to fans affected by the postponements.

This incident underscores the tensions within Bangladesh cricket, particularly regarding relations with India and the treatment of players. The resolution, however uneasy, averts a major crisis and allows the focus to return to the sport.