The forthcoming third edition of the World Championship of Legends (WCL) is poised to become more competitive and captivating with the introduction of a new franchise—Bangladesh Champions. The participation of Bangladesh’s former international stars is expected to inject fresh energy into the tournament, which already features elite veteran cricketers from traditional powerhouses such as India, Pakistan, and South Africa.
The WCL has quickly established itself as a premier platform for retired and veteran cricketers, blending nostalgia with high-quality T20 competition. Following two successful editions hosted in England, the tournament’s organisers are now broadening its appeal by incorporating Bangladesh Champions, a move widely seen as a step towards greater inclusivity and regional representation.
According to co-owner Shahniyan Tanim, the squad is set to feature some of Bangladesh’s most celebrated cricketers, including Mahmudullah Riyad and Mohammad Ashraful. Their involvement is anticipated to enhance both the competitive strength of the side and its appeal among fans, particularly those who closely followed Bangladesh’s rise in international cricket over the past two decades.
Mahmudullah, a seasoned campaigner known for his composure in high-pressure situations, expressed strong enthusiasm about participating in the tournament. He described the opportunity as a significant milestone, emphasising that representing Bangladesh on a global stage—even in a legends format—remains a matter of immense pride. Demonstrating his team-first mentality, he also affirmed his readiness to adapt to any batting position required, highlighting the squad’s collective focus on achieving success.
However, uncertainty surrounds the possible inclusion of two of Bangladesh’s most iconic figures—Shakib Al Hasan and Mashrafe Bin Mortaza. Addressing this issue, Tanim acknowledged that there are ongoing complexities, primarily of a regulatory and legal nature, which could affect their participation.
He stressed that while the franchise is eager to include both players, it remains committed to adhering strictly to all applicable rules and governance frameworks. Nevertheless, Tanim reiterated that Shakib and Mashrafe are regarded foremost as cricketers, and the team would warmly welcome their inclusion should the circumstances allow. This balanced stance reflects both respect for institutional processes and recognition of the immense value these players would bring to the side.
Previous WCL Editions
| Year | Host Country | Champion Team | Runner-up |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | England | India | Pakistan |
| 2025 | England | South Africa | Pakistan |
The tournament’s brief history underscores its competitive intensity, with Pakistan finishing as runners-up in both previous editions. The arrival of Bangladesh Champions has the potential to further disrupt the established hierarchy, particularly if the team successfully assembles a well-balanced squad combining experience and match fitness.
From a broader perspective, the inclusion of Bangladesh Champions is expected to significantly enhance the tournament’s appeal across South Asia, a region where cricket commands an unparalleled following. The presence of familiar names from Bangladesh’s cricketing past is likely to evoke a sense of nostalgia whilst also drawing new audiences to the legends format.
Strategically, success in the WCL will depend not only on experience but also on adaptability and physical readiness. Despite being a veterans’ competition, the fast-paced nature of T20 cricket demands sharp reflexes, tactical awareness, and sustained fitness levels. Players such as Mahmudullah and Ashraful will therefore play pivotal roles, both as performers and as leaders guiding the team through high-pressure encounters.
In conclusion, the entry of Bangladesh Champions into the World Championship of Legends represents a landmark moment for Bangladesh’s presence in global franchise cricket at the veteran level. Armed with ambition, experience, and a deep sense of national pride, the team will enter the tournament with genuine aspirations of lifting the trophy. Whether they can overcome established contenders remains uncertain, but their participation is certain to elevate the quality and excitement of the competition.