The players’ auction for the 12th edition of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) concluded with several notable spending patterns, unexpected restraint from franchises, and one headline-making purchase. Although each franchise was permitted to spend up to Tk 45 million on local players, none came close to exhausting that budget. Rangpur Riders were the highest spenders among the six teams, investing Tk 41.6 million to secure a total of 12 local cricketers.
Chattogram Royals followed as the second-highest spenders with Tk 38.7 million. A significant share of that amount—Tk 11 million—was allocated to secure left-handed opener Mohammad Naim, making him the costliest player of this year’s auction. Rajshahi Warriors, who picked the largest number of local players (13), spent Tk 38.1 million.
At the other end of the spectrum, Noakhali Express adopted the most conservative approach, spending Tk 26.3 million for their 12 local recruits. Sylhet Titans spent Tk 27.4 million, while Dhaka Capitals committed Tk 33.8 million.
For overseas players, teams were allowed to spend up to USD 350,000. Yet three teams—Noakhali Express, Rangpur Riders, and Rajshahi Warriors—spent less than USD 50,000. Dhaka Capitals were the only side to invest significantly in foreign talent, spending USD 75,000 on three overseas cricketers.
The overall team structures reveal a blend of strategy and long-term planning. Chattogram’s acquisition of Naim at a record price overshadowed their other signings. Rangpur secured big names such as Towhid Hridoy (Tk 9.2 million) and Liton Das (Tk 7 million), making them the second and third-most expensive players of the auction.
Interest in overseas cricketers appeared notably low. Indian leg-spinner Piyush Chawla went unsold despite registering. Among international players, only three Sri Lankans found buyers: Niroshan Dickwella, Angelo Mathews, and Dasun Shanaka.
A separate overseas auction is scheduled to begin shortly, featuring over 250 players. Each team must sign at least two foreign cricketers, with a base price of USD 35,000 for ‘A’ category players. The next phase is expected to be considerably more competitive.