A lot of expectation rests on Tamim Iqbal after he was elected BCB president on Sunday. The former Bangladesh captain outlined a mandate centred on transparency, development and elevating Bangladesh cricket's profile globally.
Tamim had spent the last two months in the role after being appointed by the government to lead an 11-member ad hoc committee. The committee replaced the Aminul Islam-led board that was dissolved on April 7 following recommendations of a five-member investigation panel that looked into allegations surrounding BCB's elections held in October last year.
During the ad hoc period, Tamim focused largely on improving fan experience in the stadiums and expanding the High Performance Centre. His reluctance to involve himself in Bangladesh team affairs also drew praise, particularly given the perception that previous BCB presidents often interfered in cricketing matters.
Among those who served in the ad hoc committee was TV commentator Athar Ali Khan, who returned to an administrative role after many years. He said Tamim's patience and approach as the board president stood out.
"I think, surprisingly, he was very good," Athar told ESPNcricinfo. "Expectations were there, but when we sat at the table with someone like Tamim Iqbal, we know that he's been an aggressive opener. He is an attacking player. This time, he was more subdued, focused on how to build on something that he believes can do better for the country. It was quite impressive, actually.
"What stood out for me was he took his time. I don't think he was in a rush. At times we've seen him batting with a rush of blood but he was certain of his responsibility as the BCB president. He just wanted to make sure that he took one step at a time and looked out for not just one or two departments, but for everyone. I think that is the most impressive part in my eyes."
There is however some concern about the composition of the BCB's new board of directors. Eleven directors are directly related to sitting MPs or ministers, while three are recognised political figures. Including two government-appointed directors, the number of board members with direct political connections rises to 16.
Tamim is one of the only two former Bangladesh captains on the board, alongside five other directors with previous BCB experience. Political influence has long been a feature of BCB administration but the concentration of political affiliations within the current board has attracted particular scrutiny.
Tanjil Chowdhury, who, like Athar, was an ad hoc committee member, believes Tamim has already demonstrated the qualities required to lead the board effectively. Tanjil has worked closely with him before as chairman of Prime Bank, whose cricket club Tamim previously captained in the Dhaka Premier League.
"I worked with Tamim bhai when he was the Prime Bank captain some years ago. He was quite engaged with the team management. I found similarity in his management style like his time as the on-field captain. In certain areas, he can be hands-on but the biggest difference between Tamim and previous BCB presidents is that Tamim likes to delegate the work.
"He likes to work with people. He empowers those around him," Tanjil said. "He made best use of each individual's strength and triggered their nascent competence. I think that's a very good sign."
Tanjil also pointed to Tamim's ability to balance diplomacy with decisiveness, particularly when dealing with sensitive matters. "Tamim bhai is also quite diplomatic despite his young age. There are many sensitive issues which he handled quite well. He has a lot of clarity in cricket operations and welfare related issues. Tamim bhai is also very receptive. He listens to everyone. He doesn't force his own vision on anyone. He is inclusive in his decision-making, so that's very good. It is refreshing to see how progressive and decisive he is. He asks us about a decision, gives us a deadline and then we take a decision together."
Considerable challenges await Tamim. He must navigate the board's political influences while maintaining cricket's voice in the administration. He also needs to restore BCB's image after months of negative headlines and internal turmoil. Many within Bangladesh cricket believe Tamim, as a long-time player and former captain as well as his business background, and the recent two-month audition as the BCB president, could help steer the board in a different direction in the years ahead.