United News of Bangladesh

The Rajshahi Warriors have been crowned champions of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), securing a dominant 63-run victory over Chattogram Royals in Friday's final. Powered by a historic century from Tanzid Hasan and a lethal bowling spell from Binura Fernando, Rajshahi defended their total of 174 with ease, bowling out Chattogram for just 111 in 17.5 overs at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium. Chasing a daunting target of 175, the Royals’ batting lineup crumbled under the pressure of the final. Sri Lankan pacer Binura Fernando was the wrecker-in-chief, claiming astonishing figures of 4 for 9 to rip through the opposition. He was ably supported by spinner Hasan Murad, who snapped up 3 for 15 to dismantle the middle order. Mirza Baig offered the only significant resistance with a knock of 39, while Asif Ali was the only other batter to cross the 20-run mark. The lean batting display meant Chattogram never truly threatened the target, handing Rajshahi a comfortable path to the title. Earlier, the foundation for the victory was laid by opener Tanzid Hasan, whose decisive 100 off 62 balls marked only the third century in BPL final history. After being asked to bat by Chattogram captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Tanzid anchored the innings with a blend of caution and aggression. He shared an 83-run opening stand with Sahibzada Farhan (30) and a 47-run partnership with Kane Williamson (24). Despite surviving a scare on 54, Tanzid punished the bowlers with 7 sixes and 6 fours, eventually perishing in the 19th over. His heroics, combined with the subsequent bowling masterclass, ensured the trophy went to Rajshahi in front of a packed house.

The owners of Chattogram Royals have relinquished control of the franchise just a day before the start of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL).  They failed to meet financial obligations to players, leaving BCB to step in and take temporary charge of the team. The franchise owner, Abdul Kaiyum, informed the BPL Governing Council of his decision in a letter submitted to the board, citing an inability to secure sponsors and pay player salaries. Under BPL regulations, the responsibility of the franchise now falls to the board.  “We have received a letter,” BPL Governing Council member secretary Iftekhar Rahman said to media. . “We are now discussing the situation with the players and reviewing how to proceed. According to the rules, the board is expected to take responsibility.” BCB director and chairman of the board’s media and communication department, Amzad Hussain, confirmed the takeover to UNB. “They are unable to continue as the owner of the team,” Amzad said. “They were also unable to make the necessary payments, so the BCB is taking over the team. Since there is no time to appoint a new owner, this was the only option.” Chattogram Royals were awarded to Triangular Services by the BCB, but the franchise had been surrounded by uncertainty since the beginning. Under BPL regulations, franchises are required to pay at least 25 percent of player contracts before the tournament begins. That payment was not made, according to officials.