“I’m Not Bangladeshi, I’m An English Cricketer”: Sylhet’s Samit Patel Sparks Controversy With Media Outburst

Recent off-field controversy has clouded the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) as Samit Patel, an English cricketer playing for Sylhet Strikers, allegedly directed foul language towards Bangladeshi media. The BPL, currently ongoing in Chattogram, will resume matches on Friday after a one-day break, with Durdanto Dhaka set to play against the Khulna Tigers.

During a practice session for the Sylhet Strikers, Patel engaged in an audio interview with a local reporter, but later demanded its deletion, citing dissatisfaction with the questions posed. Witnesses claim Patel used inappropriate language during the altercation, emphasising his English nationality over his Bangladeshi connection. However, the exact reasons for his statement remain unclear.

Two media personnel present at the scene confirmed Patel’s use of inappropriate language. According to a reporter from a private TV channel, Patel’s remarks were witnessed by multiple reporters. Despite being questioned about his behaviour, Patel refrained from commenting and merely gestured a thumbs-up.

In response to the incident, Sylhet Strikers issued a statement characterising Patel’s outburst as “unintended,” stating that he apologised upon realising his mistake. Team manager Nafees Iqbal addressed the issue with Patel and cautioned team members against similar behaviour in the future.