Speaking to reporters in Abu Dhabi, Sameen revealed that he was interested in buying a franchise in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), although he would only proceed if the terms were right.
Even if a deal does not materialise, he hopes to remain connected with Bangladesh cricket.
“Bangladesh is very close to my heart. I am looking for opportunities to participate in the BPL or somewhere in Bangladesh cricket. It really depends on what kind of opportunities come along. If there is an opportunity, I would love to be part of the BPL,” Sameen said.
The BPL will not be held this year amid various complications, particularly issues involving franchises, according to the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB). Sameen said he was aware of the challenges facing the tournament but believed it had the potential to thrive.
“The BPL is a wonderful tournament. I know it has been going through a difficult period for some time, and I understand there are reasons behind that. But given the passion we have in Bangladesh and Pakistan, I don't think this league should be struggling,” he said.
BCB president Tamim is currently in the UAE during the ongoing tri-nation ODI series, while Sameen was already in the region.
At Tamim’s invitation, the Lahore Qalandars owner watched Bangladesh’s match against Zimbabwe from the stands and shared his thoughts on how the BPL could overcome its current difficulties.
Sameen said he had discussed the matter with Tamim, drawing on his experience across several cricket leagues and development programmes.
“I had some discussions with Tamim bhai about sharing experiences. I have been part of the PSL for 11 years, and we were also involved in South Africa’s GL20 Global League. I have been involved in the T10 League several times and have been working with Cricket Canada for quite some time,” he said.
“Over the years, we have developed a lot of knowledge and understanding. So we were sharing some ideas about how we could improve the league. If an opportunity arises that creates a win-win situation for both sides, I would be very happy to be part of the BPL.”
Even if he does not acquire a BPL franchise, Sameen wants to maintain ties with the BCB through an exchange programme, an idea he has already discussed with Tamim.
“I would certainly take advantage of any opportunity. I would love to visit Bangladesh, and I hope we can find an opportunity in the BPL. If that does not happen, I would like to explore an exchange programme with the BCB,” he said.
Sameen pointed to Lahore Qalandars’ recent agreements with Guyana’s Youth and Culture Ministry as an example of how such partnerships could work, explaining that the arrangement would allow Guyanese players to travel and gain experience.
He also cited a development programme involving Zimbabwean cricketers, with eight players spending six weeks at the Islamabad High Performance Centre.
“If people in Bangladesh feel there is an opportunity, I would be delighted to arrange for them to come to Pakistan, learn from each other and develop together. That is my plan,” he added.
