More Trouble in BPL! Noakhali Express Coach under BCB investigation for Shocking Identity Reasons

The Bangladesh Cricket Board's Integrity Unit has initiated an investigation into Niaz Khan, assistant coach of BPL 2025-26 franchise Noakhali Express, amid serious doubts about his professional credentials and identity.

A local English newspaper report on December 31 spotlighted discrepancies in Khan's background, including unverified claims of coaching Afghanistan's national team during the Asia Cup, which ACB officials outright denied. BCB president Aminul Islam confirmed the matter's sensitivity, noting the unit's active involvement without disclosing details.

Legal head Mahin M Rahman revealed confirmation from Integrity Unit chief Alex Marshall that the case is under live scrutiny, linking Khan to prior roles like with Dhaka Capitals and

other associations. BPL Governing Council member Iftekhar Rahman reinforced the board's zero-tolerance on integrity, citing pressures on franchises that led some to withdraw.

Noakhali Express faced separate turmoil earlier, with coaches Khaled Mahmud and Talha Jubair protesting inadequate Sylhet training facilities in late December. BCB's anti-corruption drive, bolstered by CID collaboration, aims to shield the tournament from past match-fixing shadows. Outcomes for Khan remain pending as BPL progresses.

Meanwhile, the BPL 2025-26 returns to action from Thursday (January 1) after a brief hiatus following Khaleda Zia's death. The tournament will continue as planned but the Chattogram leg has ben scrapped with matches being shited to Sylhet and Dhaka. The final will take place on January 23 as planned in Dhaka.