Cricket enthusiasts have reason to celebrate as the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) announces the return of its players’ auction after a 12-year break. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) and BPL Governing Council confirmed that the auction will be held at an upscale hotel in Dhaka on 23 November 2025, marking a highly anticipated revival of a format last used during the league’s inaugural seasons.
Initially, the BPL relied on a player auction in 2012 and 2013. The subsequent nine seasons adopted a draft system for player allocation. This year, however, organisers have reinstated the auction, aiming to enhance transparency, competitiveness, and fan engagement while providing franchises with the flexibility to build star-studded squads.
The five franchises competing in this year’s auction are Dhaka Capitals, Chattogram Royals, Rajshahi Warriors, Rangpur Riders, and Sylhet Titans. Franchises are permitted to buy a minimum of 11 local and two foreign players, with a squad cap of 15 locals and 4 overseas players in the playing XI. Financial caps are also strictly regulated, with local player budgets capped at BDT 4.5 crore (excluding direct signings) and foreign player budgets set at USD 350,000, including direct signings.
Local ‘A’ category players will enter the auction at a base price of BDT 50 lakh, while top-tier overseas players will start bidding at USD 35,000, with incremental increases for competitive bidding. Teams can directly sign up to two local players from categories A or B and 1–2 overseas players prior to the auction. Payments are structured to maintain accountability: 25% at signing, 55% before the final league match, and the remaining 20% within 30 days after the season ends.
The auction will unfold in two phases, with local talent first, followed by overseas players. Each contract will adhere to the BCB’s tripartite agreement, ensuring fairness between the player, franchise, and governing body. All financial dealings will comply with Bangladesh’s National Board of Revenue (NBR) regulations.
Experts and insiders believe that reinstating the auction format will revitalise the league, attract international stars, and significantly increase fan interest domestically and internationally. The event is expected to be a high-profile spectacle, generating considerable media attention and social buzz ahead of the 12th edition of the BPL.