Saudi Arabia has set its sights on recruiting Bangladeshi cricketers as part of a broader strategy to develop cricket at home and achieve international recognition. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), however, has rejected the proposal. BCB President Aminul Islam stressed that the board could not take actions that would harm national interests. “It is not feasible to let our players leave the country for external projects that do not align with our priorities,” he said.
This move by Saudi Arabia forms part of its ambitious “Vision 2030” initiative, which seeks to position the country as a leading force in global sports. Cricket is now one of the Kingdom’s focus areas, with plans to strengthen domestic competitions and rapidly enhance international performance. The country aims to become a major cricketing power, following the example of other nations that have successfully recruited foreign players to develop the sport locally.
Saudi Arabia’s approach involves engaging with test-playing nations and negotiating legal and long-term contracts to bring in both players and coaching staff. Earlier, countries like the UAE and the United States have followed similar paths, successfully improving domestic cricket through foreign talent.
According to cricket media reports, Saudi officials recently reached out to the BCB, requesting both male and female Bangladeshi cricketers. The proposal also extended to coaching personnel. Aminul Islam confirmed the contact: “They approached me two months ago, but I immediately turned down their request. We cannot compromise our country’s cricketing interests.”
Saudi Arabia has already made significant investments in global sporting events, including golf tournaments, Formula One circuits, and the forthcoming 2034 FIFA World Cup. Cricket is now being added to their portfolio, with assistance from ICC and ACC frameworks. The Kingdom envisions itself as a rising cricket hub in the Gulf, aiming to enhance domestic leagues and eventually compete at the highest international levels.