Hathurusingha Refutes BCB's Allegations as 'Premeditated'

Former head coach of the Bangladesh national cricket team, Chandika Hathurusingha, addressed recent allegations made against him, asserting that his dismissal was not only unjust but also premeditated. On October 18, Hathurusingha clarified his position regarding the disciplinary issues that led to his termination from the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), expressing his readiness to fully cooperate with any investigations regarding his alleged breaches of the code of conduct.

The BCB had suspended Hathurusingha for 48 hours on October 15, citing an unsatisfactory response to a show-cause letter as the reason for his subsequent termination. This decision was based on two main allegations against him: a physical and verbal altercation with a player during the 2023 Men's World Cup held in India, and claims that he took more leave than permitted under his contract.

In a statement, Hathurusingha emphasized the importance of responding to these accusations, particularly concerning the integrity and professionalism being questioned. “I cannot allow this presumption to go unchallenged,” he stated, elaborating on his version of events regarding the alleged incident during the World Cup.

Hathurusingha pointed out that the purported incident took place in a players' dugout or dressing room, an area under constant surveillance during World Cup matches. He highlighted that with 40 to 50 cameras monitoring the event, there was no opportunity for him to cross-examine his accuser or to see any witnesses who could corroborate the claims. “If the incident was as serious as claimed, it is perplexing that the player involved did not report it to the team manager or any authority immediately following the alleged event,” he noted, questioning the timing of the allegations made months later by an individual on social media.

Addressing the second allegation regarding excessive leave, Hathurusingha insisted that he always sought and received approval from both the BCB's CEO and the Chairman of Cricket Operations before taking personal leave. He claimed that there was no indication from the BCB expressing dissatisfaction with his leave situation. “Every time I requested leave, it was granted,” he stated, emphasizing that he never took unauthorized leave.

Hathurusingha also explained that the new board members who accused him of excessive leave did not take into account public holidays or Fridays that might have coincided with his leave. He mentioned that according to Bangladeshi labor law, he was entitled to "time in lieu" for work done on Fridays and also noted that as a BCB employee, he was entitled to leave on Fridays and a half-day off on Thursdays.

He further pointed out that it is common practice for foreign coaches to take leave during the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), and this was not an exception unique to him. “Leave taken during the BPL is not considered over and above the leave entitlement as per my contract,” he clarified.

Hathurusingha went on to express his belief that the allegations were indeed premeditated. He referred to a statement made by the new president of the BCB on the first day of his term, expressing a desire to remove the head coach despite acknowledging the financial repercussions it might entail for the board. Hathurusingha was taken aback to receive a “show cause notice” just four hours before the announcement of another head coach, despite the notice stating that he had 48 hours to prove his innocence. This sequence of events raised serious questions about the motives behind the BCB's actions.

In light of the circumstances, Hathurusingha mentioned that he was advised to leave Bangladesh due to security concerns. He expressed significant concerns about the treatment of employees within the BCB, pointing to the swift appointment of a new head coach, the serious allegations against him, and the apparent lack of due process.

"I am committed to defending my reputation and will cooperate fully with any investigation into these matters," he asserted, adding, "In the end, the truth will prevail, and I will continue to contribute positively to the sport I love."

Hathurusingha’s statements reflect a deep concern about the implications of the allegations and the manner in which the BCB has handled the situation. As he prepares to address these accusations, he maintains that the allegations against him are unfounded and rooted in a broader agenda.

The former coach’s commitment to transparency and cooperation in the investigation may serve as a crucial factor as the situation unfolds. With significant public interest in the matter, the outcome of the investigation will likely impact not only Hathurusingha’s career but also the reputation and governance of the BCB moving forward.

As the cricketing community watches closely, Hathurusingha’s future in the sport remains uncertain, but his determination to clear his name and uphold his integrity is evident in his responses. Whether the allegations against him will be substantiated or dismissed remains to be seen, but for now, Hathurusingha stands firm in his conviction that he will seek justice and clarity in this troubling chapter of his professional journey.