The Bangladesh Premier League Auction System returns after 12 years, bringing major structural, financial, and competitive reforms to the BPL 2026 season. With a transparent bidding process, strict payment rules, and revised budgets for local and overseas players, the new system aims to align the league with global T20 standards and ensure a more professional, exciting tournament.
BPL 2026: A New Era Begins with the Bangladesh Premier League Auction System
The Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) is undergoing its biggest transformation in over a decade. On November 13, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) officially confirmed that the Bangladesh Premier League Auction System will return for the 2026 edition—reviving a format that was last used in 2012 and 2013. For 12 years, the league relied on a draft mechanism, but the move back to an open auction signals a bold step toward enhancing competitiveness, transparency, and global appeal.
The BPL has experienced both highs and lows over the years. While the league has produced remarkable local talents and memorable T20 moments, financial inconsistencies and the lack of a modern player acquisition format often held it back from matching global franchise leagues. With the return of the auction model, BCB aims to rebuild the tournament’s structure and improve professionalism across teams.
This decision marks the beginning of a revamped financial ecosystem for the BPL. The BCB emphasised that the redesigned system will align the Bangladesh Premier League with international standards seen in the IPL, PSL, and other successful T20 leagues. Transparency, competitive bidding, and improved player payment structures will be the core focus.
Auction Date and Venue Announced
The BCB has confirmed that the historic auction will take place on November 23, hosted at one of Dhaka’s leading hotels. All five registered franchises for the 2026 season—Dhaka Capitals, Chattogram Royals, Rajshahi Warriors, Rangpur Riders, and Sylhet Titans—will participate with their full management teams.
According to the BCB, this auction will kickstart a fresh ownership cycle and introduce a “restructured and transparent bidding process designed to align the BPL with international T20 franchise standards.” The governing council is confident that this shift will make the league more competitive and attractive for international players.
Auction Rules, Player Categories & Team Budgets
The Bangladesh Premier League Auction System will operate with two primary categories:
- Local Players
- Overseas Players
Each franchise will have the option to pre-sign four players—two local and two overseas—before the auction. This process, however, requires official approval from the BPL Governing Council to ensure fairness.
Team Budgets:
- Local Players Budget: 4.50 crore Bangladeshi Taka
- Overseas Players Budget: USD 350,000
These budgets include allocations for both auction purchases and pre-signed players. The structured financial rules aim to keep all franchises competitive and prevent overspending.
New Player Payment Policy Introduced
To address previous concerns regarding delayed payments in the BPL, the BCB has implemented a mandatory three-step payment system. All franchises must now adhere to the following structure:
- 25% — Paid at the time of signing
- 55% — Paid before the final league-stage match
- 20% — Paid within 30 days after the tournament ends
This policy ensures that both local and international players receive timely compensation, improving the league’s reputation and reliability.
FAQ
Why is the BPL returning to the auction system?
The auction system provides greater transparency, competitive bidding, and aligns the BPL with other leading T20 leagues worldwide.
When will the BPL 2026 auction take place?
The auction is scheduled for November 23, at a major hotel in Dhaka.
How many players can teams pre-sign?
Each franchise may pre-sign up to four players—two local and two overseas—subject to approval from the Governing Council.
What is the budget for local and overseas players?
Teams have a budget of 4.50 crore BDT for local players and USD 350,000 for overseas players.
What changes were made to the payment structure?
Player payments will now be split into three phases—25%, 55%, and 20%—ensuring financial transparency and accountability.