The Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) auction returned in dramatic fashion on Sunday, with early bidding dominated by intense contests for top local players.

Mohammad Naim was sold to Chattogram for BDT 1.10 crore. 

The auction at a Dhaka hotel opened with BPL chairman Aminul Islam welcoming franchises and outlining expectations for a more transparent tournament.

He also reiterated the board’s long-stated promise to introduce a women’s BPL, though past commitments have yet to materialize. Aminul urged teams to strengthen their ties with regional cricket and encouraged efforts to attract spectators across all three venues.

Once proceedings shifted to the players, the first major contest erupted for opener Mohammad Naim.

Sylhet, Rangpur and Noakhali all entered the bidding, but Chattogram Royals eventually outlasted the competition, securing Naim for Tk 1.10 crore — the day’s highest price so far.

Moments later, Rangpur Riders picked up Liton Das for Tk 75 lakh.

The auction began with local players, overseen by auctioneer Arman Rafi Nizam, following a lottery to determine whether Naim or Liton would appear first. Naim’s name was drawn, and the bidding escalated quickly.

Away from the main floor, the day’s most contentious subplot involved the nine cricketers excluded from the auction after being flagged in fixing-related inquiries. 

Earlier in the afternoon, the High Court dismissed a writ petition filed by several of the players seeking reinstatement.

Though none have been formally charged, the BCB’s integrity unit recommended keeping them out as a precaution. The excluded cricketers expressed shock, calling the decision reputation-damaging and unfair without evidence.

There was also enthusiasm from players already signed through direct contracts. Test captain Najmul Hossain, taken earlier by Rajshahi Warriors, said he was excited for the auction, acknowledging its intensity and the preparation by each franchise.