Rajshahi’s Overseas Players Sit Out BPL Game Over Unpaid Dues
In a surprising turn of events, Durbar Rajshahi’s overseas players decided to sit out of their Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) game against Rangpur Riders in Dhaka due to the franchise’s failure to pay their dues. This decision left the team without the required minimum of two overseas players in their playing XI, a first in BPL history.
Captain Taskin Ahmed confirmed the absence of the overseas players when asked about changes in the playing XI at the toss. He mentioned that they had to make four or five changes as a result. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) subsequently granted special approval for Durbar Rajshahi to field an all-local XI for the match.
Payment Disputes and Protests
ESPNcricinfo has uncovered that Rajshahi’s overseas players have only received a quarter of their total payment, far below the required 75% stipulated by the BCB’s rules for franchises. This non-payment issue also extended to the local players who protested by skipping training sessions in Chattogram a few weeks prior.
The team owner, Rahman, faced further troubles when he failed to settle the hotel bill in Chattogram on time. This led to security personnel stationed outside his room and the reported seizure of a car he was using. The team had to relocate to a different hotel in Dhaka on the morning of the match.
Game-Day Drama and Victory
Despite the absence of their overseas players, Rajshahi managed to secure a victory against Rangpur Riders in a thrilling low-scoring match at the Shere Bangla National Stadium. Rangpur came close to pulling off a remarkable win in the last over but fell short by just three runs, thanks to Mohammad Saifuddin’s heroic efforts with the bat.
This victory marked Rajshahi’s second consecutive win over league leaders Rangpur, who suffered back-to-back defeats after an eight-game winning streak. The unexpected turn of events highlighted the resilience and determination of the local players who stepped up in the face of adversity.
Expert Insight
Mohammad Isam, ESPNcricinfo’s Bangladesh correspondent, provided valuable insight into the situation, shedding light on the challenges faced by the Rajshahi franchise and its impact on the players. Isam’s expertise and analysis added depth to the story, emphasizing the broader implications of financial disputes in professional cricket.
In conclusion, the saga of Rajshahi’s unpaid dues and the subsequent player protests underscored the importance of financial stability and fair treatment in cricket leagues. The resilience displayed by the local players in overcoming adversity and securing a victory serves as a testament to their dedication and passion for the sport.
