Dhaka – Three franchises of Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), including defending champions Comilla Victorians, have so far confirmed their icon players from A-plus category. Sources close the franchises said Victorians confirmed former national captain Mushfiqur Rahim as their marquee player for the upcoming edition of BPL while Rangpur Riders roped Shakib Al Hasan and Khulna Titans picked Tamim Iqbal. To tie the knot with Mushfqiur, Victorians parted their ways with Tamim who struck a match-decisive ton in the final against Dhaka Dynamites of the last edition of the country’s most prestigious cricketing event. Titans, on the other hand, came to the end with the prolonged connection with Mahmudullah Riyad, who has been suffering from several injuries and is uncertain to take part in the BPL. Riders suddenly announced Shakib as their main pick for the forthcoming edition of BPL last week. The decision came as a surprise as it was believed that Shakib will continue with Dhaka Dynamites. The move made Dynamites astonished as they were unaware of it. A spokesperson of Dynamics, wishing anonymity, told UNB that they were sure about retaining Shakib for the next season of BPL. At the same time, he said BCB did not inform them that the franchises can start their bids for picking local players for the BPL. Riders’ move to pick Shakib made the fate of Mashrafe Bin Mortaza in BPL dark. Mashrafe is now free to pick for the franchises who are yet to confirm a player from A-plus category. Meanwhile, Chittagong Vikings owner in the previous season informed the BCB that they are unable to run the team now. So, the BCB is seeking new owners for this team as they already asked for Expression of Interest (EOI) from the possible corporate organisation, business group or individual owner. At the same time, Sylhet Sixers’ authorities reportedly said they are also reluctant to run the franchise, although it is not sure till the date. The next season of BPL will begin on December 6. Before that, an opening ceremony will take place on December 3.UNB
