CAB rocked by internal controversy
The Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB), one of India’s most prominent cricketing bodies, is facing a deepening internal crisis as two senior office-bearers come under formal investigation for alleged financial misconduct.
According to India Today, CAB Joint Secretary Debabrata Das and Treasurer Prabir Chakraborty have both been issued show-cause notices over separate but serious accusations involving irregular handling of funds, abuse of position, and potential conflicts of interest.
Debabrata Das accused of withholding funds and abuse of power
Debabrata Das, a long-time figure in Bengal cricket administration, has been asked to respond within 15 days to allegations that he withheld nearly ₹7 lakh in ticket and tournament-related revenues meant for CAB, East Bengal, and Town Club.
The charges against Das extend beyond just financial matters. Reports state that he is also being investigated for routing expenses related to Town Club players’ food through CAB’s canteen accounts and allegedly accepting payments in exchange for Bengal team selections.
One complaint, filed by the Aditya School of Sports, claims that Das accepted ₹4 lakh in return for the promise of CAB club affiliation. While the issue of withheld funds was discussed at the most recent Apex Council meeting, several other serious accusations — including selection-related bribery — remain unresolved.
Notably, Das has previously courted controversy. He was involved in a public fallout with veteran India cricketer Wriddhiman Saha, who left Bengal following the dispute.
Prabir Chakraborty under scrutiny for conflict of interest
Simultaneously, CAB Treasurer Prabir Chakraborty is facing separate allegations, including a possible conflict of interest. A complaint filed by Wari Club was referred by the Ombudsman to the Apex Council, which has now escalated the matter back to the Ombudsman for a formal inquiry.
Chakraborty has also been directed to submit a Utilization Certificate detailing how club funds were spent — a key step in verifying financial accountability within the board.
Governance concerns and calls for accountability
The twin scandals have cast a shadow over CAB’s internal governance just as the board attempts to project transparency and credibility. These latest developments have heightened pressure on the association to take decisive action.
While the show-cause notices represent an initial step, the CAB’s next moves will be closely watched — both by its stakeholders and the broader Indian cricket establishment.
Bengal players still making headlines on the field
Despite the administrative turbulence, Bengal’s cricketing talent continues to shine. Five players from the state have been selected in the East Zone squad for the upcoming Duleep Trophy 2025, which marks the beginning of India’s new domestic season.
Ishan Kishan has been named captain, with Bengal’s Abhimanyu Easwaran serving as his deputy. Fast bowlers Mukesh Kumar, Akash Deep, and Mohammed Shami — all Bengal regulars — are also included in the squad, alongside Suraj Jaiswal and Sudip Kumar Gharami as reserves.
