Asif Akbar’s Remarks on Drug Smuggling and the Future of the Youth

Asif Akbar, Director of the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) and Chairman of the AIG Group Committee, remarked that, “One neighboring country sends Phensidyl, and the other sends Yaba.”

He made this statement during a press conference at the Thakurgaon District Stadium on Thursday (20th November) morning. The conference was held as part of the BCB’s initiative to enhance the skills of age-based cricketers and develop future stars. Asif Akbar highlighted the BCB’s efforts to create opportunities for young players to grow in their careers.

During the conference, he called upon parents, society, and all stakeholders to take an active role in guiding the youth in the right direction. He said, “We want our children to return to sports instead of falling into drug addiction. The younger generation, upcoming generations, and the current generation must accept the guidance, advice, and instructions of their elders. It is our own responsibility to bring about change in our lives.”

He further added, “A new time has come, and a new Bangladesh has emerged. To promote this Bangladesh, everyone must work with dedication. The Bangladesh Cricket Board and I are with you.”

The Chairman of the AIG Group Committee also stated, “On both ends of our country, there are borders with two different countries. One sends Phensidyl, and the other sends Yaba. If there were more countries at our borders, Bangladesh would be flying to Hawaii.”

Asif Akbar emphasized that sports are not just entertainment, but an essential medium for building character, mental development, and leading a healthy life for the youth. He urged the use of sports as a powerful tool to create a drug-free environment in society.

Additionally, he assured that necessary facilities, including dressing rooms, would be provided for female athletes, along with all the required sports equipment.

Present at the press conference were BCB Director Hasanuzzaman, Secretary of the GDI Armanul Islam, BCB umpire Shakir, Thakurgaon District Cricket Coach Rokunuzzaman Rahat, and others. They provided advice to players on discipline, skill development, and mental toughness, along with practical training.

He also inspected the stadium’s infrastructure.

Khaborwala/SS