Former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia. Photo: Collected

DHAKA, Dec 30, 2025 (BSS)— Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) President Aminul Islam Bulbul expressed his deep condolences following the passing of former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson, Begum Khaleda Zia, while reflecting on his personal experiences with her. 

“I am deeply saddened by the passing of Begum Khaleda Zia, former Prime Minister of Bangladesh. Her death is a profound loss for the nation and for all who knew her leadership and public service,” Bulbul said in a statement today.

“On a personal note, I remember with gratitude the encouragement and support she extended to sport during my playing days. Her interest in cricket and her understanding of its role in uniting the country were genuine and sustained. Under her stewardship, cricket in Bangladesh benefited most notably through improvements in facilities and infrastructure that helped lay stronger foundations for the game across the country.”

Bulbul also highlighted Khaleda Zia’s lasting influence on the sport, pointing to the contributions of her late son, Arafat Rahman, whose vision and initiatives helped modernize Bangladesh cricket. 

“The progress the game has made over the years owes much to that period of forward thinking and investment,” he said.

“On behalf of the Bangladesh Cricket Board, I offer my respectful condolences to her family, loved ones, and to the millions at home and abroad who are grieving this loss. We share in their sorrow,” Bulbul said.