The key reason behind his withdrawal is the participation of his relative Tamim Iqbal. According to the source, Akram is essentially making way for Tamim.
Reports suggest that two political leaders from the Chattogram division may also contest in the elections. This time, political influence appears to be evident beyond just cricket organizers, as individuals with political affiliations are likely to secure director posts from several districts and divisions.
Against this backdrop, many former cricketers are reluctant to run from their respective divisions. Ex-captains Khaled Mashud Pilot and Minhajul Abedin Nannu have shown interest in contesting from the third category instead.
However, as Nannu is already in the “captain quota,” it will not be easy for him to be a candidate in that category unless he secures a councilor position from another institution.
Meanwhile, Dhaka division has different plans. The National Sports Council (NSC) reportedly wants to see Aminul Islam Bulbul and Nazmul Abedin Fahim as directors. Currently, the BCB president and vice president are serving as government-appointed organizers under the interim administration.
Political influence is also notable in the club category. A panel with BNP-leaning organizers includes names such as Tamim Iqbal, Fahim Sinha, Ishraq Ahmed, and Masuduzzaman Khan among its 12 members.
On the other hand, Salahuddin Chowdhury has declined to contest, while Lutfar Rahman Badal intends to run as an independent candidate. Former director Kazi Inam Ahmed and Khaled Mahmud Sujon will also not be participating in this election.
