cricket
Bangladesh-Sri Lanka T20I series kicks off Monday
After the excitement of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) final last week, it's time for Bangladesh cricket fans to shift their focus as the three-match T20I series between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka kicks off on Monday at the Sylhet International Stadium.
Both teams are already honing their skills in Sylhet to take on each other in a series that promises to showcase the rivalry that has grown over the last few years between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. Ahead of the first match, representatives from both teams have expressed their expectations for a competitive series.
Chris Silverwood, the head coach of Sri Lanka, said the main thing he wants from this series is competitive cricket on the field.
“First and foremost, I expect this to be a very competitive series between two good sides,” Silverwood said. “What happened in the past, for me, is history; now it’s gone. I think what we have to do is, certainly from our perspective, concentrate on what is in front of us.”
This series is also a chance for both teams to take one step closer to finalizing their T20 squad with an eye on the World Cup later this year, which will be played at venues across the US and the Caribbean.
Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto said they aim to develop more as a unit in the shorter format of the game.
“The past year has been good in T20Is,” Najmul said Sunday. “Our T20 game is better than before, now if we develop more, we will be able to do well against any team in any condition.”
Najmul has recently been appointed Bangladesh team captain in all formats. This series marks his first opportunity to look into the future in this role.
“It’s a challenge to me,” Najmul said regarding his new role as the new full-time captain. He may find it more challenging due to his recent lean performance in the BPL, where he scored only 175 runs in 12 matches at an average under 15. But Najmul said he is not overly concerned about his dual roles as a batter and captain.
“Whether I’m the captain or not, I have to score runs, which is my first responsibility as the batter,” Najmul said. “I have to score because I’m the captain—this is not a factor.”
Najmul echoed the sentiments of the Sri Lankan coach regarding the rivalry. He said what happened between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka in the past is in the past, and he believes a good series is ahead.
Bangladesh has faced Sri Lanka in T20Is 13 times, but they have won only four games. Three of those wins were in Sri Lanka, with the other recorded in Bangladesh.
While the first match is on March 4, the other two matches will be played on March 6 and 9, respectively. All the matches of this series will begin at 6 p.m. After the T20I series, both teams will travel to Chattogram for a three-match ODI series.
This series will be broadcast live in Bangladesh by Gtv and T-Sports channels, along with Rabbithole and the T-Sports app.//
What Lies Ahead for Tamim Iqbal?
Just over a month ago, despite being one of the finest batters that Bangladesh has ever produced, Tamim Iqbal’s cricketing future seemed uncertain.
He found himself out of the national team, voluntarily withdrawing from the national contract, and appeared less assured both on and off the field, making his fans ponder about the future of their beloved batting star. The uncertainty suffered the double blow by prolonged injury concerns.
Fast-forward a mere month and a half: Tamim now exudes more confidence than ever. Emerging as the highest run-scorer in the recently concluded Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), a feat considered exceptional for any cricketer in Bangladesh, he led Fortune Barishal to their maiden BPL title. His recent triumphs naturally beg the question—what's next for Tamim?
In BPL 2024, Tamim demonstrated he still has plenty of cricket left in him. However, how his cricket may serve the country or the interests of the national team remains unanswered, as Tamim faced the media after the BPL final in Mirpur.
Uncertainty shrouded Tamim’s future mid last year when he abruptly retired from all forms of cricket after his fitness comments faced heavy criticism from board president Nazmul Hasan.
Though he rescinded his decision following intervention from Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Tamim never fully returned to the national team's fold. Stepping down from captaincy just before the last Asia Cup, he then missed the World Cup as the selectors kept him out due to concerns about his playing fitness—a move Tamim publicly criticized.
These events seemingly marked the end of Tamim’s career as a national cricketer. Yet, his standout performances in BPL 2024—both as a batter and captain—prompted Bangladesh’s cricketing fraternity to reassess Tamim’s future.
Asked before the BPL if he's interested in a national team comeback, Tamim deferred clarification until after the tournament. As the BPL concluded, Tamim remains eager to sit down with BCB bosses to determine his future.
“I’m traveling abroad tomorrow morning,” Tamim stated after the BPL final. “I didn't get to speak with him (new chief selector Gazi Ashraf Hossain), but I planned to discuss with Jalal bhai, the cricket operation chairman. Hopefully, we can talk upon my return.”
Tamim stressed the need for the right environment. “I want to clarify that many things need to align if I return. It's not just about playing. I probably have only two years of cricket left, so discussions are essential.”
Yet, Tamim did not elaborate on his expectations from BCB.
Under Tamim’s leadership, Fortune Barishal exuded camaraderie during BPL 2024. Senior cricketers Mahmudullah Riyad and Mushfiqur Rahim were pivotal to Barishal’s success. While Tamim had tasted BPL glory before, it was Mahmudullah and Mushfiqur's first win.
By dedicating the BPL title to Mahmudullah and Mushfiqur, Tamim showcased his generosity. However, while his fans cheer this gesture, they eagerly await more reasons to celebrate—specifically, Tamim's decision regarding a potential return to the national team.
Barishal stuns Comilla to claim maiden BPL title
Fortune Barishal clinched the championship in the 10th edition of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), overcoming the four-time titleholders Comilla Victorians in Friday's final.
Barishal successfully chased down the target of 155 runs with six wickets in hand, as David Miller struck a decisive boundary off Mustafizur Rahman's delivery outside the off-stump off the last ball of the 19th over.
Kyle Mayers led the charge with a dynamic 46 off 30 balls, including five fours and two sixes, while the opening partnership of 76 runs between Tamim Iqbal and Mehidy Hasan laid a solid foundation.
After the first-wicket partnership, Barishal maintained their momentum throughout the chase.
Opting to bowl first after winning the toss, Barishal effectively contained Comilla's batting lineup, with Sunil Narine falling early for just 5 runs. Kyle Mayers made crucial first breakthrough.
Comilla’s best batter in this BPL, Towhid Hridoy, and their captain Litton Das were also sent back within the powerplay, leaving Comilla struggling to recover.
Mahidul Islam Ankon top-scored for Comilla with 38 runs, supported by Andre Russell's late onslaught of 27 off 14 balls. However, questions arose regarding Russell's delayed entry into the batting order.
James Fuller claimed two wickets for Barishal but conceded 43 runs in his spell.
Upon sealing the victory, jubilant Barishal players and support staff rushed onto the field in celebration. Unbeaten Mahmudullah Riyad and David Miller were embraced by teammates amidst a backdrop of fireworks, as the Sher-e-Bangla stadium erupted in euphoria.
Tamim Iqbal, Barishal’s captain, concluded this year's BPL with 492 runs—the highest by any batter—averaging over 35 runs, with a strike rate of over 127. He surpassed Comilla’s Towhid Hridoy, who scored 462 runs. Tamim scored 39 runs in the final and was awarded the player of the BPL 2024, marking the first time he has received this honor.
Tamim will receive a reward of BDT 15 lakh—10 lakh for the player of the tournament and 5 lakh as the best batter.
Alongside Tamim, this BPL brought relief for Mahmudullah Riyad and Mushfiqur Rahim, who won the BPL title for the first time. Both had played in two BPL finals before but had failed to win. However, this time, their wait for a BPL title ended.
Kyle Mayers was awarded the player of the final for his 46 runs and 1 wicket for 26. Shoriful Islam was the highest wicket-taker with 22 wickets in 12 matches. He represented Durdanto Dhaka, who were eliminated as the first team.
Champions Fortune Barishal will receive a reward of BDT two crore, while the runners-up Comilla Victorians will be rewarded BDT one crore.
Barishal stun Comilla to claim maiden BPL title
Fortune Barishal clinched the championship in the 10th edition of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), overcoming the four-time titleholders Comilla Victorians in Friday's final.
Barishal successfully chased down the target of 155 runs with six wickets in hand, as David Miller struck a decisive boundary off Mustafizur Rahman's delivery outside the off-stump off the last ball of the 19th over.
Kyle Mayers led the charge with a dynamic 46 off 30 balls, including five fours and two sixes, while the opening partnership of 76 runs between Tamim Iqbal and Mehidy Hasan laid a solid foundation.
After the first-wicket partnership, Barishal maintained their momentum throughout the chase.
Opting to bowl first after winning the toss, Barishal effectively contained Comilla's batting lineup, with Sunil Narine falling early for just 5 runs. Kyle Mayers made crucial first breakthrough.
Comilla’s best batter in this BPL, Towhid Hridoy, and their captain Litton Das were also sent back within the powerplay, leaving Comilla struggling to recover.
Mahidul Islam Ankon top-scored for Comilla with 38 runs, supported by Andre Russell's late onslaught of 27 off 14 balls. However, questions arose regarding Russell's delayed entry into the batting order.
James Fuller claimed two wickets for Barishal but conceded 43 runs in his spell.
Upon sealing the victory, jubilant Barishal players and support staff rushed onto the field in celebration. Unbeaten Mahmudullah Riyad and David Miller were embraced by teammates amidst a backdrop of fireworks, as the Sher-e-Bangla stadium erupted in euphoria.//
Bailey Road Tragedy: BPL honours fire victims with moment of silence
The Bangladesh cricketing community observed a one-minute silence to mourn the devastating Bailey Road fire that claimed 46 lives on Thursday night.
In a press release, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) expressed profound condolences to the families of those lost in the tragedy. Players, officials, spectators, and journalists joined in the solemn tribute.
“The BCB mourns in the wake of this devastating event. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families who have lost their loved ones in this unfathomable tragedy,” BCB statement reads.
“We extend sincere wishes for a speedy recovery to those who sustained injuries and burns in the fire. We hope for their swift recovery and restoration to full health. Our thoughts are also with the medical personnel and emergency responders who are tirelessly working to provide care and support to the survivors,” it adds further.
The fire erupted shortly before 10 pm Thursday in a building housing restaurants, clothing businesses, and electric gadget shops. The lack of adequate exits hampered escape for those trapped inside.
Health Minister Dr. Samanta Lal Sen confirmed carbon monoxide poisoning as the primary cause of death, which happens when smoke enters the respiratory system. The official death toll stands at 46, with at least 75 injured, some in critical condition.
BPL 2024 Final: Barishal opt to field first v Comilla
Fortune Barishal captain Tamim Iqbal won the toss and elected to field first in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) 2024 final against the Comilla Victorians on Friday in Dhaka.
Comilla, with a perfect record in their four previous finals appearances, enters the match with a clear confidence advantage.
Barishal, despite reaching their fourth final, is still seeking their first BPL title. (Barishal has fielded different franchises throughout BPL history; this is the second final for the Fortune franchise.)
The Victorians welcomed back Mustafizur Rahman, who recovered from a recent head injury, replacing Mushfik Hasan in their lineup. In contrast, Barishal is fielding an unchanged playing XI for the final.
Barishal's path to the final included victories over the Chattogram Challengers in the eliminator and the Rangpur Riders in the second qualifier.
Two hours before kickoff, the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium was already buzzing with thousands of spectators. Both Comilla and Barishal command large and passionate fanbases, adding to the excitement of the final.
Bangladesh's New Robi-sponsored jersey unveiled
Bangladesh's national cricket team has a fresh look courtesy of their returning sponsor, leading mobile network provider Robi. The Tigers' new jersey featuring the Robi logo was officially unveiled in a grand ceremony at the International Convention City Bashundhara (ICCB).
The sponsorship deal, inked for three and a half years, covers the men's and women's national teams, along with Bangladesh's Under-19 squads. Players from these teams showcased the new jerseys in a lively fashion show at the event, attended by the officials of both Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) and Robi Axiata Limited.
Bangladesh men’s national team captain Najmul Hossain, allrounder Mehidy Hasan Miraz, national women’s team vice-captain Nahida Akter, women’s team pacer Marufa Akter, captain of Bangladesh U-19 men’s team Mahfuzur Rahman Rabby, vice-captain Ahrarm Amin, and U-19 women’s team member Rabeya Khan and Sumaiya Akter were presented at the jersey unveiling program.
BCB Director and Facility Management Committee Chairman Akram Khan expressed the organization's excitement about the partnership.
“The BCB is delighted to welcome Robi back. We have high hopes that, starting with the upcoming Sri Lanka series, their support will fuel more glorious victories for our national team,” as Akram was quoted in a press release Robi provided.
Robi's Chief Corporate and Regulatory Officer, Shaheed Alam, echoed the sentiment.
“We are proud to once again be associated with the Bangladesh National Cricket Team. We firmly believe that this partnership will continue the memorable successes,” the press release reads.
Robi's previous sponsorship of the BCB (2015-2018) coincided with a string of triumphs, including consecutive ODI series wins against Pakistan, South Africa, and India. The team also reached the Asia Cup final in 2016 and made history in the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy by reaching the semi-finals.
New Milestone for BPL: Final to be broadcast in 64 countries
The stage is set for the climax of the 2024 Bangladesh Premier League (BPL). Comilla Victorians and Fortune Barishal are gearing up to battle it out in the final of Bangladesh's premier cricket event on Friday, with the match set to be broadcast in 64 countries worldwide.
The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) hailed this development as a milestone in a media notification.
“Catch the final from every corner of the world!,” the notification reads. “Media Rights for the BPL 2024 has been distributed in 64 countries. This is a new milestone in the broadcast history of BPL!”
BCB further announced that viewers from around the world can enjoy the BPL final on the T Sports app and Rabbithole YouTube channels.
The star-studded final will feature cricketing stars such as Tamim Iqbal, Litton Das, Mushfiqur Rahim, David Miller, Mahmudullah Riyad, and Andre Russell, along with other local and international stars.
BPL 2024: Tournament prize money revealed
As the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) 2024 draws to a conclusion, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) unveiled the prize money for the champions, runners-up, and individual best performers.
With a total prize pool worth millions, the BPL offers substantial rewards to players who have showcased exceptional skill and talent throughout the event.
Among the coveted awards up for grabs are the player of the final, best fielder of the tournament, highest wicket-taker of the tournament, and highest run-getter of the tournament, each carrying a cash prize of BDT 5 lac. And the best fielder of the event will take a reward of BDT 3 lac.
The most prestigious individual accolade, the player of the tournament, comes with a hefty reward of BDT 10 lac.
Additionally, the teams vying for glory in the final match stand to gain substantial financial incentives. The runner-up team will receive a generous sum of BDT 1 crore, while the champions will claim a staggering prize of BDT 2 crore, a fitting reward for their triumph on the cricketing battlefield.
In the final of Friday, March 1, the Comilla Victorians will take on Fortune Barishal at Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium. This year’s BPL final is set to be broadcast in 64 countries by TV channels and all around the world on the T Sports app and Rabbithole YouTube channel.
BPL final fever: Ticket frenzy hits Dhaka as fans jostle for a seat
As the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) gears up for its climactic final between Fortune Barishal and Comilla Victorians, the fervour reaches beyond the pitch to the ticket counters. The Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Dhaka is the battleground not just for the teams but for their legions of fans engaged in a frantic race to secure a spot in the stands.
Outside the stadium, a dramatic scene unfolds at the ticket booths. Throngs of fans, some of whom have camped out since the early hours, are embroiled in a disorganised scramble for tickets. The lack of order has turned the ticket purchase into a test of patience and endurance.
BPL 2024: Barishal oust Rangpur, advance to final
For Zahangir Alam, a Barishal supporter who travelled from Tongi, the quest for a ticket turned into a frustrating ordeal. After hours of patiently waiting in line, he found himself displaced when a new queue suddenly materialised, leaving him and his friends ticketless and disheartened.
“I don’t know how I can get a ticket,” Zahangir, a garment worker, lamented. “I arrived at 6 am, but as the day wore on, the queue swelled, and my hopes dwindled.”
BPL 2024: Shamim blasts 20-ball 50, powers Rangpur to competitive total
Such tales of disappointment were not uncommon, as mismanagement marred the ticketing process at the closest booth to the stadium. With no security personnel or BCB representatives in sight, fans were left to fend for themselves in the chaotic scramble to buy a ticket.
Among the hopeful attendees was Rahman, a schoolteacher from Chattogram, who had journeyed to Dhaka with his friends in eager anticipation of witnessing the final. A staunch Tamim Iqbal fan, Rahman’s allegiance had shifted to Barishal after Chattogram Challengers bowed out of contention, yet his optimism was tinged with apprehension.
BPL 2024: Barishal or Rangpur – Who Will Face Comilla in the Final?
“I came all the way from Chattogram with my friends, but I fear we may not secure tickets,” Rahman confessed, revealing only one part of his name.
With a capacity of slightly over 25,000, the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium faces immense demand for tickets, with a significant number of seats allocated to sponsors and other stakeholders.