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Mahbub Anam Appointed as New BPL Chairman, Replacing Faruque Ahmed
BCB Announces Major Change Ahead of New BPL Cycle
The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has officially appointed Mahbub Anam as the new Chairman of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) Governing Council, succeeding Faruque Ahmed. The announcement was made following a board meeting held on Thursday, June 19, at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur, Dhaka.
This marks a significant shift in leadership as the BPL gears up for a new phase following the conclusion of its previous three-year cycle, which ended with the 2024–25 season.
BPL’s Leadership Restructured for Next Phase
Governing Council Sees New and Retained Faces
Alongside Mahbub Anam’s appointment, BCB director Nazmul Abedin has retained his position as the Member Secretary of the BPL Governing Council. In addition, Faim Sinha will join the governing council as one of its new members.
“Mahbub bhai was named as the new chairman of the BPL governing council,” a BCB official confirmed to Cricbuzz after the meeting, signaling a fresh administrative start for Bangladesh’s premier T20 league.
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BPL Faces Brand Challenges and Structural Reform
The upcoming edition of the BPL is expected to face considerable structural and brand-related challenges. Last year’s edition drew widespread criticism due to non-payment issues and match-fixing allegations, which led the BCB to form a special investigation committee. However, the findings of that investigation are still pending public release.
A BCB official mentioned that while December remains the traditional window for the tournament, organizing it this year will be particularly challenging given the upcoming general elections and the ongoing 25-year Test cricket celebration carnival.
“We held a brief meeting after the main board discussions to evaluate how we can proceed with BPL. The primary focus is on increasing its brand value. That’s our biggest challenge,” said a senior BCB official.
New Format, Shorter Model, and Consultant Backing
The BCB is considering multiple models to improve the commercial and sporting aspects of the league. The idea of reducing the number of teams from seven to five has also been floated, especially if logistical or financial challenges become too great.
“We are discussing a four or five-year cycle and are open to taking assistance from professional consultancy firms to help us rebrand BPL,” added the official. “Even if we have to organize a smaller version, we want to host a competitive T20 event.”
Planning to Attract Franchise Buyers with Improved Model
Despite doubts surrounding the timing of the next BPL season, board officials remain optimistic. They believe that if they successfully pitch a modern, investor-friendly model, the league could attract franchise buyers, both domestic and international.
“If we can present a robust, sustainable model—similar to other successful franchise leagues—we are confident that reputed organizations will show interest,” said the official.
Media Rights and Test Cricket Anniversary Also Discussed
In the same board meeting, the BCB also addressed two other important matters:
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The media rights bidding process for future broadcasting contracts
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Planning and execution of the upcoming carnival to celebrate 25 years of Bangladesh’s journey in Test cricket
These initiatives further emphasize the BCB’s focus on enhancing cricket infrastructure and boosting fan engagement both domestically and globally.
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Read official Cricbuzz report on Mahbub Anam’s appointment
