Dhaka, Sep 22 (IANS): Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) president Nazmul Hassan has expressed deep sorrow at the death of BCCI president Jagmohan Dalmiya, while board CEO Nizam Uddin Chowdhury termed it the passing of an "off-field Tendulkar".

In his condolence message, the BCB chief recalled Dalmiya's contribution to cricket in Bangladesh. Dalmiya died in Kolkata on Sunday night after being admitted to a hospital last Thursday with chest pain. The 75-year-old subsequently suffered massive gastrointestinal bleeding and died, reports bdnews24.com.

"Bangladesh cricket has lost a true friend and well-wisher," he said on Tuesday.

"We shall always remember with gratitude Dalmiya's cooperation in taking Bangladesh cricket forward. Bangladesh's entry into the Test arena was also the result of his foresight and sincere cooperation."

BCB chief Hassan said Dalmiya will be forever remembered for his deeds.

"World cricket will certainly miss his sharp leadership and foresight. But the bright spot he has left behind in cricket administration will be everlasting," he said.

Chief executive Chowdhury is one of the board's longest-serving officials. He has seen Dalmiya's role in Bangladesh cricket from close.

He recalled Dalmiya's continued support even after Bangladesh's elevation to the Test status.

"He not only played a role in our getting the Test cap but often kept advising us even after that. He used talk to us, enquire about us. He was well-wisher of Bangladesh cricket in the true sense of the term," said Chowdhury.

Chowdhury remembered how Dalmiya had completely recast world cricket.

"He was an immensely farsighted man. The generation of huge revenue for cricket through the sale of telecast rights was his brainchild. Now, TV rights are the main source of income for the cricket boards of all cricketing countries and the ICC. That sustains world cricket," he added.

According to the BCB chief executive, Dalmiya is a legend like any great cricketer.