Instead of taking their bonus for the recent Test whitewash over Pakistan, players have reportedly agreed to channel the money into the long-term development initiative, which will benefit cricketers at all levels, including Under-19, High Performance and senior squads.
BCB ad-hoc committee chairman Tamim Iqbal said the players voluntarily offered to forego their bonus for personal use and instead invest it in infrastructure development.
“The players said, ‘We don’t need the bonus. If you can build a world-class gym and a proper swimming pool, we will consider that our bonus,’” Tamim said.
He added that the total cost of the project would exceed the players’ bonus contribution, but their decision marked an important step toward improving facilities for future generations.
Tamim also confirmed that the current outdated gym will be fully renovated and expanded, with state-of-the-art equipment sourced from leading global manufacturers.
A modern swimming pool facility, including ice bath, hot bath, recovery systems, and changing rooms, will be constructed on adjacent available space.
He explained that advanced recovery technology will be installed so players will no longer need manual ice baths, as automated systems will regulate temperature for rehabilitation purposes.
“The goal is to build a proper national-level gym and recovery centre with the best equipment in the world,” Tamim said, adding that the swimming facility will also support injured players during rehabilitation.
Tamim further expressed hope that the initiative will continue under the next cricket board administration after upcoming elections, ensuring long-term benefits for Bangladesh cricket development.
