Bangladesh Cricket Board on Wednesday introduced a lifetime "captains' card" for current and former national team captains.

Tamim Iqbal, former national captain and current BCB ad-hoc body head, took the initiative of honouring the captains in a city hotel and described it as a small but meaningful step towards recognizing their effort and contribution towards the game of cricket in Bangladesh.

BCB offered a range of benefits to 33 captains -- 27 from the men's team and six from the women's team -- who have led Bangladesh across formats since 1977. A total of 21 recipients attended the event in person, while the others were unable to join for various reasons.

Tamim admitted he, along with many cricketers, experienced moments of discomfort regarding recognition and access and he would not like that to happen under his leadership.

"This card is not something very big - certainly not compared to what all of you have given to Bangladesh cricket. But this is a start," said Tamim in his speech while opening the ceremony on Thursday.

"There was always an insecurity - what if I go to the ground and I'm not recognised, or stopped at the gate? Will my respect be maintained? I have felt this myself at times, and I'm sure many of you have as well. It's unfortunate that those who built Bangladesh cricket even have to think like this," he said.

"I don't want to see a Bangladesh captain making a phone call for a ticket or standing in line to collect one. As long as I am here, that will not happen," he said. Tamim added that captains' card will serve as a lifetime access pass to all cricket events in Bangladesh, including international matches, ICC and ACC tournaments, the Bangladesh Premier League, and domestic competitions.

"From today, this card is your identity. Wherever cricket is played in Bangladesh, this will be your pass," Tamim said.

"For you, there can be no ticket that matches your contribution. This is just a small gesture of respect," he said, adding that beyond access the card also includes priority parking at venues.

"I've seen captains walking in from outside, even being pushed in crowds. That cannot happen. In Mirpur, the VVIP space-there is no one more deserving than you," he said.

Tamim also announced health benefits for captains which includes medical support equivalent to that of current national players. He also added that If required the board will also assist with overseas medical arrangements.

"Once a captain retires-or even for those already retired-they will receive health insurance like national team cricketers. The BCB medical team will be available 24/7. You won't need to call anyone or take appointments-that will be our responsibility," he said.