Testing time for Bangladesh cricket

"Playing for money or the pride of the country which comes first?" this is always a tricky question. Bangladesh's cricket is facing a deep crisis after 13 of its national players was lured by the Indian Cricket League (ICL). Playing in the ICL ensues an automatic ban from all forms of official cricket. But they will be able to earn up to US$200,000 from a three-year contract, which is a lot of money in Bangladesh's context. According to Reuters this amount is five times more than a top Bangladeshi player's annual central contract, with which they were unhappy.

Cricinfo reveals:

The exodus of 13 players from Bangladesh to the Indian Cricket League - and into virtual exile from all official cricket - has been formalized with the unveiling in New Delhi of the Dhaka Warriors. The team, which will compete in the second season of (ICL) from October 10, will be led by Habibul Bashar, the former national captain, and includes recent internationals Aftab Ahmed, Alok Kapali, Shahriar Nafees, Farhad Reza, Dhiman Ghosh and Mosharraf Hossain.

The Bangladesh Cricket Board The BCB attempted to discuss with the six players still on contract, but the Daily Star reported that none of them turned up.

Not all could be lured. All rounder Sakib Al Hasan tells Cricinfo:

"I think it's a personal choice. But I am very much clear in my position. I want to play for my country and I believe everything will come in my way if I keep my position on the national side."

Many Bangladeshis were outraged by the rebel cricketers decision. Unheard Voices echoes the sentiments and claims that the Bangladeshi cricketers are trying to hide their incompetence and greed under fake outrage against the Board.

Kotha-Chilo argues in these cricketers defense:

What makes you think they have betrayed their country? These boys are professional cricket players. If they get better chance anywhere, they are entitled to leave.

Journey2infinitive comments:

This game is become monopoly of some Mafia people. Team like Bangladesh is suffering for that. Now Bangladesh (Cricket Board) should take the right step. They should not bow down to any unethical decision. They should see the interest of the players and equally for the future of Bangladesh cricket.

Sri Lankan Cricket board is rescheduling their England tour because of their players schedule in Indian Premier League(IPL).

Cricket is an individualistic game. If these players get the chance to play competitive cricket with higher standard players these could make them more experienced which can be beneficial for Bangladesh.

So I think Bangladesh Cricket Board should reach an agreement with these rebelling cricketers to allow them to play in the future for Bangladesh on certain conditions. An outright ban will not bring any good for them nor Bangladesh cricket.