The calendar for Bangladesh`s premier T20 cricket tournament, the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), is facing a significant potential disruption. The upcoming season, typically scheduled for the December-January period, may need to be shifted to a later window, possibly in May, primarily due to the anticipated timing of the nation`s general elections.
This possibility was officially announced by the BPL Chairman, Mahbub Anam, following an emergency meeting of the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) directors. The decision hinges on the government`s directives concerning the election schedule, which is expected to necessitate a focus on national security and logistics that could impact hosting a major sports event.
Chairman Anam stated that while the December-January slot is the preference, the BCB is awaiting confirmation from government authorities before finalizing any dates. He explicitly mentioned May as a viable alternative window should the December-January period prove unfeasible.
Beyond the immediate scheduling challenge, the BPL leadership is also focusing on structural improvements for the league`s future. A key initiative is the planned appointment of a professional sports marketing consultancy firm to oversee the tournament`s operations. This move comes as the BCB acknowledges past organizational challenges and controversies that have affected the league`s standing. The board is actively seeking expressions of interest (EOI) from potential firms, prioritizing those with a proven track record in managing international T20 leagues. The aim is to elevate the BPL`s standard and enhance its brand value, ensuring smoother execution and greater appeal.
Under new leadership – Mahbub Anam recently took over as BPL chairman – the league is also looking towards expansion. Plans are being developed for a new five-year cycle, and part of this vision involves increasing the number of venues used for matches. Currently, the BPL utilizes stadiums in Dhaka, Chattogram, and Sylhet. The BCB is evaluating additional potential venues, including facilities in Bogura, Khulna, Barisal, and Rajshahi. Any new venue will need to meet stringent criteria, including adherence to ICC standards and the availability of suitable accommodation for players and teams, ensuring that expansion enhances rather than compromises the quality of the tournament experience.
While corporate interest in partnering with the BPL remains strong, the assessment of potential partners will proceed once a new financial model for the league is finalized. The BCB intends to engage directly with corporate entities to build robust partnerships.
In essence, the upcoming BPL season faces uncertainty dictated by the national political calendar, but the league`s organizers are simultaneously laying the groundwork for a more professional and expanded future, aiming to learn from past shortcomings and boost the tournament`s stature on the global cricket stage.
