The 11th edition of Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) commenced on Monday with rich enthusiasm from cricket fans, despite protests over ticketing arrangements that created disruptions outside the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium.
While many fans eagerly queued to enter the stadium to watch the opening match between Durbar Rajshahi and defending champions Fortune Barishal, some faced frustration due to limited ticket availability. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) had earlier announced that tickets would only be available online and at seven branches of Modhumoti Bank PLC, with no on-site ticket sales at the stadium.
The lack of tickets led to protests outside the venue, with unruly fans blocking the Rajshahi team bus and the personal vehicle of Khulna Tigers captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz. Authorities intervened swiftly to restore order and ensure the match could proceed without further disruptions.
Playing Squads:
Durbar Rajshahi: Anamul Haque Bijoy (c), Mohammad Haris, Jishan Alam, Akbar Ali, Yasir Ali, SM Meherob Hasan, Ryan Burl, Lahiru Samarakoon, Mrittunjoy Chowdhury, Hasan Murad, and Taskin Ahmed.
Fortune Barishal: Tamim Iqbal (c), Towhid Hridoy, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Mushfiqur Rahim, Mahmudullah, Kyle Mayers, Mohammad Nabi, Faheem Ashraf, Tanvir Islam, Ripon Mondol, and Shaheen Shah Afridi.
