New-look NCL begins with BCB betting on a stronger domestic game

The National Cricket League began its 2026-27 season on Saturday with the Bangladesh Cricket Board introducing a series of changes designed to give the country's premier first-class competition a stronger competitive edge.

Eight divisional teams are taking part in the four-day tournament, which has opened at four venues. Defending champions Rangpur Division face Dhaka Division at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium, while the other opening-round matches are being played in Sylhet, Khulna and Chattogram.

One of the most significant changes this season is the introduction of a Second XI competition. All eight divisions will have another team competing separately, creating an additional platform for domestic players to gain first-class exposure and putting greater emphasis on performance within the main teams.

The BCB has also increased match fees for players across domestic competitions. For the NCL, the revised payment structure is intended to give first-class cricket greater professional value and provide players with a stronger incentive to compete for places.

Reforms aim to raise competition and create a deeper pool of first-class cricketers 

The league has also adopted several new visual and ceremonial features. Players have been given division-specific baggy caps and helmets, while captains will wear specially designed blazers during the toss. A new shield-shaped trophy is also being introduced.

The Kookaburra ball has returned to the competition this season after the previous edition saw a switch between Kookaburra and Duke balls. The move is part of the board's broader effort to make domestic first-class cricket more closely aligned with the demands of the longer format.

The opening round, however, is being played without most of Bangladesh's established national players. The national T20 squad has just completed its Asian Games campaign in Japan, while Test players are preparing for the one-off Afghanistan Test in the UAE beginning on October 9.

That absence means the early rounds will provide an opportunity for emerging and fringe players to make a stronger case for national selection.

With the Second XI providing an additional pathway and greater financial incentives at the top level, the BCB is hoping the revamped NCL can develop a deeper pool of players capable of handling the demands of international cricket.