Mahmudullah Riyad. Photo: Collected

DHAKA, April 18, 2026 (BSS) - Veteran Bangladesh cricketer Mahmudullah Riyad has credited Tamim Iqbal for taking the initiative to ensure that the upcoming Dhaka Premier League gets underway, bringing relief to players after months of uncertainty.

Speaking to the media on Saturday during the opening day of the player transfer window, Mahmudullah also expressed his delight at returning to Prime Bank Cricket Club after a long gap and welcomed the resumption of the league.

“What made us relieved is that the Dhaka Premier League is finally going to start. We were all waiting for this opportunity. It is definitely a matter of joy for the cricketers,” he said.

The experienced all-rounder acknowledged the anxiety among players due to earlier uncertainty but praised Tamim, who is currently serving as the president of the Bangladesh Cricket Board’s ad-hoc committee, for stepping in at the right time.

“The credit must go to Tamim. He came and took this initiative. Of course, it is a major source of income for cricketers, but at the end of the day, we all want to be on the field. There is nothing greater than getting a chance to play,” he added.

Mahmudullah also thanked Prime Bank Cricket Club for offering him another stint, recalling his previous appearance for the side in 2005. 

He lauded the club’s professionalism, particularly in ensuring timely payments and quality facilities for players.

The senior cricketer was also happy with the team’s balance, stating that they have got a blend of experienced and young cricketers across departments.
 
“I am very happy with the squad I’ve got at Prime Bank. I think it’s a balanced side,” he said.

“We have players like Azizul Hakim, Tamim, Shahadat Hossain Dipu in the top order. In the middle order, there is Shamim Patwari along with me, and some promising young players. Our pace and spin departments are also strong with the likes of Aliss Al Islam, Rafsan and Tanzim Hasan Sakib.”