The Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) is no stranger to drama, but this season has delivered controversy even before a single ball has been bowled. The spotlight initially shone on Chattogram Royals, who sent shockwaves through the player auction by securing opening batsman Mohammad Naim for a staggering BDT 11 million (1 crore 10 lakh taka) — the highest price of the auction. At the time, the move signalled serious intent and ambition from the franchise.
However, just one day before the start of the tournament, that ambition unravelled. Triangle Service, the franchise’s owning company, officially withdrew from the BPL, plunging the team — and its players — into uncertainty.
According to sources within the league, franchise owner Abdul Qaiyum submitted a formal letter to the BPL Governing Council, citing an inability to meet players’ salary commitments due to a lack of expected sponsorship revenue. Despite having signed contracts with both local and overseas players, the franchise reportedly failed to arrange the funds required to honour those agreements. In particular, several foreign players were left unpaid, raising concerns over the league’s financial governance and credibility.
With Chattogram Royals effectively abandoned by their owners, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) stepped in swiftly to prevent disruption to the tournament. The board has now assumed full responsibility for the franchise, ensuring that the team remains operational and competitive throughout the season.
Unsurprisingly, the situation has prompted a crucial question among fans and players alike: what will happen to the contracted salaries, especially Mohammad Naim’s record-breaking deal? Will players receive their full payments, or face renegotiations?
Addressing these concerns, Iftekhar Rahman, Member Secretary of the BPL Governing Council, offered reassurance in a media briefing.
“We met with the players this morning,” he explained. “Those who possess valid contractual documents will receive their payments. For players whose paperwork was incomplete, we will issue new contracts under the BCB.”
This announcement has eased much of the anxiety surrounding player remuneration, particularly for high-profile signings such as Naim. By assuming contractual responsibility, the BCB has taken a firm stance to protect players’ interests and preserve the integrity of the league.
In addition to financial oversight, the BCB has also restructured the team’s management to ensure stability on and off the field. Several experienced former internationals have been appointed to guide the squad through this turbulent period.
Chattogram Royals: New Management Structure :
| Role | Appointed Official |
| Mentor | Habibul Bashar |
| Head Coach | Mizanur Rahman |
| Team Manager | Nafis Iqbal |
Mohammad Naim: Auction Highlights :
| Category | Details |
| Player | Mohammad Naim |
| Team | Chattogram Royals |
| Auction Price | BDT 11 million |
| Role | Opening Batsman |
| Auction Status | Highest Bid |