The Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) is set to return with its 11th edition, bringing excitement and entertainment to cricket fans. With the tournament starting on December 27, 2024, and running until February 7, 2025, teams are gearing up to battle it out for the coveted title. This blog will delve into everything you need to know about the BPL 2025 upcoming season, including team compositions, key players, venues, and more.
Overview of the Bangladesh Premier League
Launched in 2012, the BPL has quickly become one of the most popular T20 leagues in the world. The league showcases a mix of local talent and international stars, making it an exciting platform for players to display their skills. Over the years, the BPL has produced thrilling matches, unforgettable performances, and a significant following both locally and internationally.
The Teams and Their Squads
In the upcoming season, seven teams will compete for the championship. The player draft took place recently, allowing teams to finalize their squads. Here’s a closer look at each team:
1. Dhaka Capitals
Direct Signings: Tanzid Hasan Tamim and Mustafizur Rahman.
Foreign Direct Signings: Thisara Perera, Amir Hamza, Johnson Charles, Shahnawaz Dahani, and Stephen Eskinazi.
Draft Picks:
- Local- Liton Das, Mukidul Islam, Habibur Rahman Sohan, Abu Jayed, Munim Shahriar, Sabbir Rahman, Asif Hasan, Musfik Hasan, and Shahadat Hossain Dipu.
- Foreign- Amir Hamza Hotak and Saim Ayub.
2. Chittagong Kings
Direct Signings: Shoriful Islam, and Shakib Al Hasan.
Foreign Direct Signings: Moeen Ali, Haider Ali, Usman Khan, Angelo Mathews, Binura Fernando and Mohammad Wasim Jr.
Draft Picks:
- Local- Shamim Hossain, Khaled Ahmed, Parvez Hossain Emon, Aliss Al Islam, Naeem Islam, Mohammad Mithun, Maruf Mridha, Sheikh Parvez Jibon, Rahatul Ferdous Javed, and Marshall Ayub.
- Foreign- Thomas O’Connell, and Graham Clarke.
3. Durbar Rajshahi
Direct Signing: Anamul Haque Bijoy
Draft Picks:
- Local- Taskin Ahmed, Yasir Ali, Jishan Alam, Sabbir Hossen, SM Meherob Hasan, Sanjamul Islam, Akbar Ali, Md. Shafiul Islam, Hasan Murad, and Mohor Sheikh.
- Foreign- Lahiru Samarakoon, and Saad Nasim.
The Signings Are In! Get ready as these players prepare to light up the stage in the 11th edition of BPL 2025. Post is here-
4. Fortune Barishal
Direct Signing: Towhid Hridoy
Retained Players: Mushfiqur Rahim and Tamim Iqbal.
Foreign direct signings: Kyle Mayers, Mohammad Nabi, Dawid Malan, Faheem Ashraf, Jahandad Khan, and Ali Mohammad.
Draft Picks:
- Local- Mahmudullah, Nazmul Hossain Shanto, Tanvir Islam, Ripon Mondol, Nayeem Hasan, Ebadot Hossain, Rishad Hossain, Shohidul Islam, Taijul Islam, and Ariful Islam.
- Foreign- James Fuller, Nandre Burger, Pathum Nissanka.
5. Sylhet Strikers
Direct Signing: Jaker Ali Anik
Retained Players: Zakir Hasan, and Tanzim Hasan Sakib.
Foreign direct signings: George Munsey, and Paul Stirling.
Draft Picks:
- Local- Rony Talukder, Al-Amin Hossain, Mashrafe Bin Mortaza, Arafat Sunny, Ariful Haque, Ruyel Miah, Nihaduzzaman, and Nahidul Islam.
- Foreign- Rahkeem Cornwall, Reece Topley, and Samiullah Shinwari.
Check Also: BPL Draft: Durbar Rajshahi sign Taskin Ahmed; Reece Topley joins Sylhet Strikers
6. Khulna Tigers
Direct Signing: Mehedi Hasan Miraz
Retention Players: Nasum Ahmed, and Afif Hossain.
Foreign direct signing: Oshane Thomas
Draft Picks:
- Local- Hasan Mahmud, Imrul Kayes, Mohammad Naim, Mahidul Islam Ankon, Ziaur Rahman, Abu Hider Rony, Mahfuzur Rahman Rabby, and Mahmudul Hasan Joy.
- Foreign- Mohammad Hasnain, Mohammad Nawaz, and Lewis Gregory.
7. Rangpur Riders
Direct Signing: Mohammad Saifuddin
Retention Players: Mahedi Hasan, and Nurul Hasan Sohan.
Foreign direct signings: Alex Hales, Steven Taylor, Allah Ghazanfar, Khushdil Shah, and Saurabh Netravalkar.
Draft Picks:
- Local- Nahid Rana, Soumya Sarkar, Saif Hassan, Rakibul Hasan, Irfan Sukkur, Rejaur Rahman Raja, Tawfique Khan Tushar and Kamrul Islam Rabbi.
- Foreign- Curtis Campher, and Akif Javed.
This diverse mix of experienced international players and emerging local talents promises to make the competition fierce and captivating. Below is a video clip of some moments from the draft ceremony:
Catch a sneak preview of the action at the 11th BPL draft#BCB | #Cricket | #BPL | #T20 pic.twitter.com/5L0DhJWK3c
— Bangladesh Cricket (@BCBtigers) October 14, 2024
Key Players to Watch
As always, certain players are expected to shine in the BPL 2025. Here are a few key players to keep an eye on:
- Shakib Al Hasan (Chittagong Kings): Renowned for his all-round capabilities, Shakib remains a pivotal player, capable of changing the course of a game with both bat and ball.
- Tamim Iqbal (Fortune Barishal): As one of Bangladesh’s leading run-scorers, Tamim’s performance will be crucial in setting up competitive totals.
- Mustafizur Rahman (Dhaka Capitals): The left-arm pacer is known for his unique bowling style and death-over expertise, making him a critical asset for his team.
- Anamul Haque Bijoy (Durbar Rajshahi): This dynamic opener is known for his aggressive batting style. His ability to provide quick starts and play impactful innings is vital for setting up competitive totals.
- Jaker Ali Anik (Sylhet Strikers): He is an emerging talent who has impressed with his recent performances. As a key batsman, he has shown the ability to play impactful innings under pressure.
- Mehedi Hasan Miraz (Khulna Tigers): This talented all-rounder is known for his spin bowling and middle-order batting. His ability to take wickets during crucial phases of the game.
- Mohammad Saifuddin (Rangpur Riders): This promising all-rounder is known for his fast bowling and aggressive batting. His role as a finisher and ability to contribute with the ball in key moments.
Venues
The matches will take place in some of Bangladesh’s most iconic cricket stadiums. Key venues for the BPL 2025 include:
- Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium, Mirpur: A regular host for the BPL, known for its electrifying atmosphere. (Capacity- 26,000)
- Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium, Chattogram: A picturesque ground that often sees high-scoring encounters. (Capacity- 20,000)
- Sylhet International Cricket Stadium: Another venue that has gained popularity for hosting thrilling matches. (Capacity- 18,500)
These venues promise to provide a vibrant backdrop for the matches, adding to the excitement of the tournament.
The Format
The BPL will follow a league format, where each team plays the others in a round-robin style. The top four teams will qualify for the playoffs, leading to the grand finale. This structure ensures that every match counts, keeping fans on the edge of their seats as the tournament progresses.
Also Read: The Road to Glory: A Recap of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024
Exciting Features and Fan Engagement
The BPL organizers have continuously worked on enhancing fan experiences. In 2025, expect engaging activities, fan zones, and interactive social media campaigns. These initiatives aim to bring fans closer to the action and create an inclusive environment.
Conclusion
The BPL 2025 season is shaping up to be an exciting chapter in the history of Bangladeshi cricket. With strong team compositions, key players, and vibrant venues, fans are in for a treat. Mark your calendars for December 27, 2024, as the cricketing action unfolds! Whether you are cheering for your favorite team or enjoying the thrilling matches, the BPL promises to deliver unforgettable moments.