Ending all speculations, the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) governing council announced that the BPL T20 will kick off on December 19. The tournament will be held in a short window, with the final scheduled for January 16.
A total of six teams will take part in the tournament, although the governing council had earlier indicated it would be a five-team event. However, Noakhali Express is the new addition to the competition. The two old franchises—Rangpur Riders and Dhaka Capitals—along with three other teams—Sylhet Titans, Chattogram Royals, and Rajshahi Warriors—will complete the lineup for the 12th edition of the tournament.
Speaking to the media today, BPL governing council member secretary Iftekhar Rahman Mithu revealed that a total of 500 foreign players registered to play in the BPL, but only 250 were selected. He also explained the decision to increase the number of teams, saying, “We have taken the decision to increase the number of franchises from five to six to accommodate more local players. Moreover, scheduling was also a factor since it was difficult to arrange two matches per day with only five teams.”
Mithu further informed that the tournament is planned to start in Sylhet, followed by a short opening ceremony in Dhaka. “What is new in this tournament is that we are planning to start the tournament in Sylhet. The final is likely to be held on January 16. We are also planning to arrange a short opening ceremony on December 17 in Dhaka,” he said.
The players’ auction, returning after a 12-year hiatus, is scheduled for November 30 at a local hotel in the city. Teams have already started forming their squads, with Dhaka Capitals confirming the services of Taskin Ahmed and Saif Hassan as direct signings, along with some overseas players. Rajshahi Warriors secured Najmul Hossain Shanto and Tanzid Hasan Tamim as their direct signings, while Sylhet Titans roped in Nasum Ahmed and Mehidy Hasan Miraz. Rangpur Riders signed Nurul Hasan Sohan and Mustafizur Rahman directly and also confirmed some overseas recruits. Chattogram Royals are expected to have Tanvir Islam and Mahedi Hasan as their direct signings.
Cox’s Bazar Life Desk/BSS
