BCB Takes Over Chattogram Royals Ahead of BPL 2025-26 Opening

In a dramatic development just a day before the 12th edition of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) kicks off, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has taken control of the Chattogram Royals franchise. The franchise owner, Triangle Services Limited, withdrew from the tournament, citing a lack of sponsor interest.

Owner Withdrawal Shocks BPL

Triangle Services had acquired the Royals franchise from the BCB and participated in last month’s player auction. However, on Wednesday, the company officially communicated its withdrawal. 

BPL chairman Iftekhar Rahman said, “They have given the BCB a letter three hours ago, so we have officially taken over the team. It is an unexpected situation. The franchise wrote in the letter that due to media reports, they couldn’t find sponsors for the team. We have been strict about integrity and player payment this season. We don’t want a situation like the Rajshahi franchise last year.”

BCB Appoints New Management

To stabilize the team, the BCB has appointed former Bangladesh captain Habibul Bashar as team director. Mizanur Rahman Babul takes charge as head coach, while Nafees Iqbal will serve as the team manager. The board’s quick intervention ensures that the Royals are ready for their opening fixture to avoid the disruption.

Early editions in 2012 were marred by payment disputes, but a period of stability lasted from 2016 to 2019. Last season, problems resurfaced when Durbar Rajshahi players boycotted a training session and a match to protest delayed payments, including daily allowances and hotel bills, as government intervention was required to resolve the matter.

Concerns Over Royals’ Franchise History

The Royals were one of four new franchises this season, reducing the total number of teams to six from seven last year. Owner Kayum Rashed recently revealed in an interview that two individuals linked to the franchise were flagged in a BCB corruption report. While the franchise had completed the necessary fees and bank guarantees by December 9, the board remained cautious, highlighting concerns over integrity.

Opening-Day Match Goes Ahead

Despite the off-field uncertainty, the Royals’ opening match against fellow newcomers Noakhali Express will proceed as scheduled. 

As the BPL 2025-26 unfolds, all eyes will be on the Chattogram Royals to see if the board-led intervention can deliver competitive cricket from day one and set a positive tone for the season.