![BCB to introduce new policy for women's team [Source: AFP]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1794021763678_BangladeshWomenMaternityLeave.jpg?type=hq)
BCB to introduce new policy for women's team [Source: AFP]
In a revolutionary decision, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has decided to approve paid maternity leave for women cricketers. This way, the board is being more supportive of players who want to balance motherhood with their professional careers.
The proposal was discussed during an online board meeting on November 5, 2026. According to BCB women's wing chairman Rafiqul Islam Babu, the decision still needs formal board approval.
BCB to support women cricketers embracing motherhood
Notably, the BCB is currently considering four months of paid maternity leave, although the women's wing chairman has suggested extending it to six months. Not only that, but the board has also discussed payment arrangements for women cricketers who are on its payroll.
“We had an online board meeting yesterday [Thursday]. Many of the directors were present. We have decided to introduce paid maternity leave, and it will also be approved by the board,” Islam Babu told Daily Star.
This big decision comes after former Bangladesh national pacer Suraiya Azmin had requested paid maternity leave earlier in 2026. The BCB has now taken steps to pay her four months' salary.
Rafiqul Islam Babu confirmed that he had signed the necessary approval and expected the money to be credited to her account within a day or two. Suraiya welcomed the development, saying she was happy that the board had finally started taking steps towards introducing paid maternity leave.
Needless to say, her case has helped bring the issue into sharper focus. Now, all eyes will be on the final approval as the Bangladesh women cricket enters a new era.
Bangladesh follows Australia, Pakistan
Interestingly, Bangladesh is not the only country to approve paid maternity leave for women cricketers. Cricket Australia, New Zealand Cricket and Pakistan Cricket Board also have maternity policies in place.
CA provides paid maternity leave to its contracted players while NZC has similar rules. The PCB also joined the bandwagon when it introduced a Parental Support Policy in 2021.
These policies are designed to support players through pregnancy, childbirth and their eventual return to cricket. Now, Bangladesh will follow the same steps to showcase its support for women's cricket.
