‘My mother is a woman. I can’t be a misogynist’

Bangladeshi cricketer Tanzim Hasan Sakib has offered an apology, vehemently asserting that he is not a misogynist, in response to severe backlash over some of his older social media posts.

Tanzim, a right-arm pacer, recently made his debut for the national cricket team and played a pivotal role in their first victory against India in the Asia Cup in over a decade.

In a now-deleted social media post, Tanzim suggested that if a woman works outside, she may struggle to fulfil her duties to her husband and children.

In another post, which is also currently inaccessible, he implied that a co-educational environment at educational institutions makes it difficult to find a “shy” wife.

Both posts ignited fierce debate on social media due to their strongly prejudiced nature against women.

“We have engaged with Tanzim,” said Jalal Younus, chairman of cricket operations of the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB). “He admitted to posting those remarks, but he clarified that it was never his intent to offend anyone.”

Jalal said Tanzim asserted that he harbours no disrespect towards women, saying that his mother is a woman and he “cannot be a misogynist.”

“We have cautioned him about the posts that sparked controversy,” Jalal added. “We have advised him to exercise caution while posting on social media, as his behaviour on these platforms may be subjected to monitoring by the board.”

Tanzim conveyed his regrets for the posts through the board, affirming that he will refrain from making similar statements in the future.

“Tanzim Sakib’s family is also concerned about his posts,” Jalal said. “He is a young player, and that’s why we felt it necessary to caution him.”