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The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has announced its decision to initiate legal proceedings against Durbar Rajshahi, a Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) franchise, for failing to clear payments owed to overseas players and hotel bills.
Breaking Point in the BPL
The controversy escalated when unpaid foreign players, including Pakistan’s Mohammad Haris and Afghanistan’s Aftab Alam, refused to play in Sunday’s match against Rangpur Riders. Other international players, including Lahiru Kumara, McCauley Cummins, Mark Doyle, and Ryan Burl, also joined the boycott.
This forced Rajshahi to field an all-local XI, breaching BPL rules that mandate at least two overseas players in the playing XI. In an unprecedented move, the BPL governing council allowed the rule to be bent, marking a first in the tournament’s history.
Despite the turmoil, Rajshahi managed to secure a thrilling two-run win over table-toppers Rangpur Riders.
BCB’s Response
BCB Media Committee Chairman Iftekhar Rahman confirmed the board’s legal action, saying:
“The money has to be paid. Otherwise, BPL’s reputation will be ruined. We have been patient, but they have crossed all limits. We will file cases for breach of contract and other violations.”
The BCB had reportedly given Rajshahi multiple opportunities to resolve the issue, but their continued failure has forced the board’s hand.
Players and Team Under Stress
Rajshahi captain Taskin Ahmed shared the challenges his team faced, including being forced to change hotels on match day due to unpaid bills. He revealed that only two hours before the game, players were informed that the foreign contingent would not participate.
“We had to focus on the game despite everything,” said Taskin, adding that some payments were made to local players on match day, though doubts remain about whether the cheques will clear.
Impact on the BPL
This marks the second payment dispute in the ongoing BPL season, raising concerns about the tournament’s governance and financial stability. The refusal of six foreign players to participate has further tarnished the league’s image.
The BCB’s swift legal action aims to uphold the league’s reputation and ensure justice for affected players.
