Mizanur has partly dismissed the rumours, saying Barishal could still take part if the tournament is rescheduled. Speaking to Cricbuzz, he said: “I didn’t say we won’t play in the BPL. If the timing changes, we’ll definitely play. We’ve always been involved in cricket, not outside of it. What I said was that playing within such a short time frame would be very difficult for a team like ours.”
He explained that the short preparation window poses a major challenge.
“Everyone is calling me, and I’ve also told the BCB that the time is too short. For a team like ours, it’s almost impossible to prepare properly within this period,” Mizanur added.
The Barishal owner further elaborated on the logistical and financial challenges, while stressing that a BPL without Fortune Barishal would not feel complete.
“Even if we have the players, we still need to arrange funds, buy necessary equipment, and bring the players over, all within just one to one and a half months. Even working 24 hours a day, it’s not feasible. That’s why I asked for more time. Let’s see what the BCB decides.”
He also questioned whether other top teams would be ready under such tight deadlines.
“I don’t think any good team would want to play with so little time. Ask Rangpur, I believe only the less experienced teams would agree. Holding the BPL just for the sake of it doesn’t make sense to me. And I don’t think it would be right to stage a BPL without Fortune Barishal.”
The uncertainty over Barishal’s participation is not the only talking point, the involvement of star batter Tamim Iqbal has also drawn attention. Tamim had earlier announced his withdrawal from cricket-related activities after expressing interest in contesting the BCB elections.
But according to Mizanur Rahman, if Fortune Barishal play, Tamim will too.
“I don’t think Tamim will skip the BPL. He probably meant boycotting general cricket. If the BPL goes ahead, I’ll request him to play. I believe if Barishal play, he’ll join us.”
Meanwhile, the BCB plans to stage the 12th edition of the BPL in late December, featuring five teams and matches across four venues; Dhaka, Chattogram, Sylhet, and an additional city yet to be finalized.
