Strict Measures for New BPL Season: BCB Takes Tough Stance in Franchise Selection

Staff Reporter | PNN

Several teams lost reputation during the previous Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) season due to delayed player payments and billing irregularities. This time, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) is planning to take strict measures from the very beginning of the new season.

Applications for the 12th BPL franchises closed on October 28. According to the board, the selected institutions must participate continuously for the next five seasons. From 2027 onwards, the participation fee will increase by 15% in phases. Over five years, each franchise will have to pay nearly BDT 13.5 crore.

Additionally, each franchise must deposit a BDT 10 crore bank guarantee six months before every season. According to the new guidelines, the BCB will receive 30% of the total franchise profits. Eleven companies applied this year, with two expressing interest specifically for Rajshahi.

To prevent the disorder seen last year, the BCB is taking extra precautions during franchise verification. In a recent board meeting, directors reviewed applications and shortlisted eight companies, while three — Mind Tree, Banglamark, and SQ Group — were excluded.

BPL Governing Council member Iftekhar Rahman Mithu said, “Eleven companies applied. Three were excluded because their documentation was incomplete. For now, eight companies have been shortlisted.”

He also clarified that being shortlisted does not guarantee a franchise; final decisions will be made in the BCB’s upcoming board meeting.

Last season, the tournament faced criticism due to financial opacity and outstanding player payments. This year, the BCB has made it clear that only responsible franchises capable of proper management will be allowed to participate.