Tariq Kazi quits Bashundhara Kings over unpaid salaries

Bangladesh national team defender Tariq Kazi has officially ended his six-year spell with Bashundhara Kings, citing unpaid salary issues as the reason behind his departure.

The 25-year-old centre-back announced the decision through a social media post at 7 PM on Friday, confirming that he had legally terminated his contract with the Bangladesh Premier League giants after enduring repeated delays in payments.

“There are moments in a footballer’s life when silence becomes too heavy to carry,” Kazi wrote. “For over a year, I lived through inconsistent and delayed salary payments that tested my strength both as a professional and as a person. It was not only a financial challenge but also an emotional burden.”

Despite the circumstances, Kazi stressed that he remained professional and loyal to the club during the period of uncertainty. “I chose patience, professionalism and respect. I stayed because of love; love for football, love for my country and love for the people who fill the stadiums with heart and hope,” he added.

The Finnish-born defender, who has been a regular starter for Bangladesh, also thanked his former coaches Oscar Bruzon, Valeriu Tita and Mario Gomez, along with his teammates and the supporters.

In his statement, Kazi drew attention to a larger issue in Bangladeshi football, noting that many local players continue to face similar challenges in silence. “There are many players across the country facing even more difficult situations. Their struggles often go unheard, but their dedication keeps the game alive,” he said.

Kazi described his farewell as one rooted in dignity and gratitude rather than anger. “I leave proud of every drop of sweat, every fight and every moment I represented Bashundhara Kings over the past six years. I walk away with pride, not pain,” he concluded.

Tariq Kazi’s next destination remains unknown, but his statement has reignited conversations about the financial transparency and professionalism needed within Bangladesh’s domestic football system.

NSA