BSS
  03 Jan 2026, 21:41

BCB clarifies to drop Chattogram as venue for BPL matches

DHAKA, Jan 3, 2026 (BSS)— Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has clarified the circumstances that led to the decision to move matches of the Chattogram phase of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) T20 to Sylhet and Dhaka.

In a statement today, the BCB said that the adjustment was necessitated by unavoidable itinerary challenges arising from the postponement of two scheduled matches on December 30, 2025 in Sylhet, following the passing of former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia and in the wake of the general holiday declared by the Government for her namaz-e-janaza. 

“In the days that followed, the BCB and the BPL Governing Council held extensive deliberations to explore all possible options to accommodate the postponed fixtures at a later date, including extending the duration of the tournament,” the BCB said.

“However, it was ultimately not practically feasible to do so. The BPL T20 2026 must be completed by January 24 due to the Bangladesh national team’s planned departure for participating in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026. This fixed international commitment significantly limited the flexibility of the tournament calendar,” the statement added. 

In reaching the final decision, the BCB consulted closely with key stakeholders, including broadcasters and logistics partners. After careful consideration, it was agreed that relocating the matches originally scheduled for Chattogram to Sylhet and Dhaka was the most viable solution under the circumstances, the statement further said.

“The Board fully acknowledges and understands the disappointment felt by the local organisers and cricket supporters in Chattogram. The BCB respectfully requests their understanding, as this was an unforeseen situation and the decision was taken in the overall interest of cricket and the smooth conduct of the BPL,” it explained.

The BCB however assured that the organisers and the cricket-loving public of Chattogram city remains a priority venue for all future international and domestic cricket events, including forthcoming editions of the BPL.