Cricketers Welfare Association of Bangladesh to Hold Election on September 4
The Cricketers Welfare Association of Bangladesh (CWAB) has officially announced that its upcoming election will be held on September 4. The association has taken significant steps to ensure a fair and transparent election process, with preparations already underway.
Formation of Election Commission
As reported by Cricbuzz, CWAB has established a three-member election commission to oversee the election proceedings. The commission is chaired by Iftikhar Rahman Mithu and includes former national captain Habibul Bashar and ex-wicketkeeper Nasir Ahmed Nasu as members. Their role is crucial in ensuring that the election is conducted in accordance with CWAB’s regulations.
A recent meeting at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium brought together several current and former cricketers to discuss the revival and restructuring of CWAB. Selim Shahed, a member of CWAB’s ad-hoc committee, shared insights from the meeting, stating, “We’ve decided that the election will be held on September 4. The entire process, from membership enrollment to nomination form collection and submission, will commence soon.”
Permanent Office at SBNS
One significant development is the establishment of a permanent office for CWAB at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium. This move addresses a longstanding demand of the association and provides a dedicated space for operational and registration-related activities. The space was allocated by the National Sports Council (NSC) under the Ministry of Youth and Sports, marking a milestone for CWAB’s organizational structure.
Selim expressed gratitude towards the Ministry of Youth and Sports, NSC, and the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) for their support in securing the office space. He clarified that CWAB operates independently and is not a trade union but a welfare association dedicated to supporting cricketers.
Membership Eligibility and Voting Rights
All players registered with the Cricket Committee of Dhaka Metropolis (CCDM) since 1975 are eligible to become lifetime members of CWAB with voting rights. Additionally, current and former national and first-class players listed as permanent CWAB members will also have the opportunity to vote in the upcoming election. However, members holding formal positions within the BCB will be disqualified from voting to prevent conflicts of interest.
Selim emphasized CWAB’s commitment to safeguarding the welfare of cricketers at all stages of their careers. The association aims to address issues such as payment discrepancies during tournaments and ensure timely compensation through proper contracts.
Future Plans
Looking ahead, CWAB plans to establish training centers to help retired players acquire skills in coaching or journalism, enabling them to stay active post-retirement. The association is working on a three-tier structure to represent current, recently retired, and long-retired players, catering to their evolving needs and aspirations.
Former national batter Mohammad Mithun highlighted the increased involvement of current players in CWAB, signaling a shift towards player-driven initiatives and accountability. There is speculation surrounding potential contenders for the CWAB presidency, including prominent cricketer Tamim Iqbal, although official confirmation is pending.
Overall, the upcoming election presents an opportunity for cricketers to select representatives who will champion their interests and drive positive change within the cricketing community. With a renewed focus on player welfare and empowerment, CWAB is poised to make a meaningful impact on the lives of cricketers in Bangladesh.
Role of CWAB in Supporting Cricketers
The Cricketers Welfare Association of Bangladesh (CWAB) plays a crucial role in championing the rights and well-being of cricketers in the country. Beyond organizing elections and overseeing administrative tasks, CWAB is actively involved in addressing various challenges faced by players. One key area of focus is ensuring fair compensation for cricketers participating in domestic and international competitions. By advocating for transparent contracts and timely payments, CWAB aims to protect the financial interests of players and enhance their overall livelihoods.
In addition to financial matters, CWAB also works towards providing comprehensive support to cricketers throughout their careers. This includes offering guidance on career transitions post-retirement, facilitating access to training programs for skill development, and creating networking opportunities within the cricketing community. By nurturing a supportive ecosystem for current and former players, CWAB fosters a sense of camaraderie and solidarity among individuals connected through the sport.
Collaboration with Stakeholders
As an independent entity dedicated to cricketers’ welfare, CWAB collaborates with various stakeholders to amplify its impact and reach. Partnerships with the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), the National Sports Council (NSC), and other sporting bodies enable CWAB to leverage resources and expertise in advancing its mission. By fostering alliances with key organizations, CWAB can advocate effectively for policy changes, resource allocation, and program development that benefit cricketers at large.
Moreover, CWAB’s engagement with sponsors, media outlets, and corporate entities expands its outreach and influence within the broader community. By forging strategic partnerships with diverse entities, CWAB can secure additional resources for its initiatives, raise awareness about cricketers’ needs, and garner support for its advocacy efforts. This collaborative approach strengthens CWAB’s position as a prominent voice for cricketers’ rights and interests in Bangladesh.
Impact of COVID-19 on Cricketers
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the world of sports, including cricket, leading to disruptions in schedules, financial challenges, and mental health concerns among players. In response to these unprecedented circumstances, CWAB has adapted its strategies to better support cricketers during the crisis. Initiatives such as financial assistance programs, mental health counseling services, and online training opportunities have been introduced to mitigate the pandemic’s adverse effects on players.
Furthermore, CWAB has been actively involved in advocating for health and safety protocols for cricketers returning to training and competition post-lockdown. By collaborating with health experts, government authorities, and sports bodies, CWAB has contributed to the development of guidelines to ensure a safe and secure environment for players, staff, and officials. This proactive approach underscores CWAB’s commitment to prioritizing the well-being of cricketers in all situations.
Continued Evolution and Growth
As CWAB prepares for its upcoming election and embarks on a new chapter of leadership, the association remains dedicated to evolving its programs and services to meet the changing needs of cricketers. By embracing innovation, inclusivity, and stakeholder engagement, CWAB seeks to enhance its impact and relevance in the cricketing landscape of Bangladesh. Through continuous introspection, collaboration, and strategic planning, CWAB aims to position itself as a dynamic and responsive organization that empowers cricketers and elevates the sport to new heights.
As cricket continues to hold a special place in the hearts of Bangladeshis, CWAB’s role in safeguarding the interests and well-being of cricketers is more important than ever. By upholding principles of transparency, accountability, and player-centric advocacy, CWAB stands as a beacon of hope and support for generations of cricketers to come.
