BCB to Build Biomechanics Lab with Over 100 Million Taka Investment

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has initiated plans to establish a biomechanics lab at the National Cricket Stadium in Purbbachal, with an estimated cost exceeding 100 million taka. The board has already begun the search for consultants to set up the facility, which will initially be operated by foreign technicians due to the lack of local expertise.

Fahim Sinha, head of BCB’s Game Development Department, confirmed that the board is looking for consultants, potentially from India or Pakistan, to manage the lab in its early stages. Simultaneously, local personnel will be trained to handle operations in the future. The lab aims to reduce player injuries, enhance performance, and provide in-depth technical analysis.

According to Sinha, setting up a standard biomechanics lab will cost over 100 million taka, though a larger-scale facility could require 150–200 million taka. The BCB plans to start with a modest setup and gradually upgrade its technological capabilities. The lab will analyze critical aspects such as bat swing, bowling action, foot pressure, muscle strength, and potential injury risks. It will also assess the proper use of equipment like bats, balls, gloves, and shoes, enabling coaches to identify and address issues more effectively. Additionally, bowlers will no longer need to travel abroad for bowling action tests. Sinha emphasized the importance of biomechanics in modern sports, noting that every major cricketing nation, such as India with its 11 biomechanics labs, relies on such facilities for research and development. “There’s no alternative to biomechanics or sports science in modern sports,” he said. “The advancements in cricket are driven by research conducted in these labs.” Initially, the BCB considered using the biomechanics lab at the Bangladesh Krira Shikkha Protishthan (BKSP). However, prolonged disuse has rendered BKSP’s lab nearly obsolete. BKSP’s Director General, Brigadier General Md. Munirul Islam, stated that the lab requires software updates, which they are working on, and it is currently being used to a limited extent for BKSP athletes. The BCB has consulted its medical department, with Chief Medical Officer Debashish Chowdhury highlighting the role of biomechanics in improving player efficiency and reducing injury risks. “Sports science is integral to success in all major sporting nations. Biomechanics is a part of it. Its effectiveness depends on how well we implement it, the quality of technicians we bring in, and our ability to analyze data,” he told Prothom Alo. The BCB aims to train local coaches on biomechanics to ensure they can utilize the lab effectively to address player issues. BCB President Aminul Islam, who has a background in sports science, is reportedly enthusiastic about the project. However, with BCB elections scheduled for October, the project’s timeline remains uncertain. Sinha noted that the current board intends to leave a detailed roadmap for the next administration to ensure the lab’s development progresses.