The Dhaka Premier Division Cricket League (DPL) begins today across three venues, marking the start of Bangladesh’s lone fifty-over club-based domestic competition. While members of the national team won’t be available immediately due to ongoing commitments, the excitement around the tournament remains high, especially with star all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan and opener Tamim Iqbal set to feature from the beginning.
The spotlight will be on the two national team stalwarts, Shakib and Tamim, both of whom are currently sitting out of the Tigers’ home series against Sri Lanka. They are expected to be in action on the opening day, with Tamim’s Prime Bank facing Shinepukur Cricket Club at Khan Shaheb Osman Ali Stadium in Fatullah, and Shakib’s Sheikh Jamal taking on Gazi Tyres Cricket Academy at BKSP-3 ground.
Additionally, the domestic competition will serve as a platform for Mohammad Saifuddin, playing for holders Abahani Limited. Despite playing a crucial role in Fortune Barishal winning their maiden Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) title earlier this month, Saifuddin was not selected for the national team.
Speaking about his exclusion, Saifuddin said, “We have a balanced side, but the first match will be important, and we will try to start with a win. I think the pressure is more to become the champions than playing good cricket.”
Regarding his omission from the national team, Saifuddin expressed that it was the right decision by the Tigers’ team management. He believes rushing his comeback after a recent back injury would have been challenging, and he prefers focusing on performing well in the DPL to earn another opportunity at the national level.