In cricket, the players on the field usually get all the fame. But Sharfuddaula Ibn Shahid Saikat has proved that an umpire can become a star too. He has made a big name for himself, even at the international level.
Saikat is already part of the ICC Elite Panel and has successfully umpired at major ICC events. He has also officiated important Test series like the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
Recently, there have been rumors that Saikat, who represents Bangladesh in world cricket, might leave his job with the BCB. Reports say he is unhappy with a decision made against Mohammedan captain Towhid Hridoy during a Dhaka Premier League (DPL) match. Saikat is considered the best umpire in the country.
After the incident, Saikat sent a resignation letter to the Cricket Board, but the BCB refused to accept it. Later, Saikat met with BCB officials. After their discussion, the BCB announced that one match of Hridoy’s two-match ban had already been served, and the second match would be carried over to the next season’s DPL. This decision was made after a full-day meeting with the players.
Iftekhar Rahman Mithu, head of the Umpires Committee, said the BCB still needs an umpire like Saikat. Speaking to Dhaka Post on Saturday, he explained, “Mistakes happened, but everything will be done for the good of cricket. Saikat is a little upset, but we need umpires like him in Bangladesh cricket. The BCB wants him to return.”
