For the first time, Noakhali and Mymensingh joined the traditional lineup that includes Dhaka, Chattogram, Rajshahi, Khulna, Barishal, Sylhet, Rangpur and Cumilla.
Initially, Bangla Mark Limited had shown interest in acquiring the Noakhali franchise. But after the preliminary evaluation, the company was eliminated from the race.
Within a month, however, the situation shifted dramatically as Desh Travels stepped in and secured ownership of the Noakhali franchise.
Following two rounds of assessment, covering documentation, compliance reviews and financial transparency, the BPL Governing Council finalized five franchises for the next five editions on November 5.
The BCB has now confirmed six teams for participation in the upcoming season. According to sources, all six are expected to take part in the players’ auction.
Rangpur Riders and Dhaka Capitals were the first two teams to be confirmed, with Sylhet Titans, Chattogram Royals and Rajshahi Warriors later receiving approval.
Under tournament regulations, each franchise was required to submit a bank guarantee of Tk 10 crore within five working days. Most failed to meet the deadline, prompting the BCB to extend the submission window to November 18.
Despite the extension, several franchises still could not fulfill the requirement.
Desh Travels had initially pursued ownership of the Rajshahi franchise and even cleared the preliminary screening. But the company fell short of meeting the financial criteria and was dropped from the final list.
In a surprising twist, Noakhali is now set to make its debut in the BPL. Speculation suggests the team may compete under the name “Noakhali Express.”
The players’ auction will take place on November 30 at a five-star hotel in Dhaka, with each franchise allowed to pre-sign two local and two overseas players before the event.
