BCB Takes Ownership of Chattogram Royals after the franchise faced serious financial and reputational challenges ahead of the Bangladesh Premier League. The Bangladesh Cricket Board stepped in to protect player welfare and ensure tournament stability. With new management appointments and direct oversight, the move aims to restore confidence, stabilize operations, and guarantee the team’s participation for the remainder of the BPL season.
Why BCB Took Over Chattogram Royals and What It Means for BPL
The Bangladesh Cricket Board has officially stepped in as BCB Takes Ownership of Chattogram Royals for the remainder of the ongoing Bangladesh Premier League season. The decision followed a formal written request from franchise owner Kayum Rashed, who admitted his inability to continue managing the team under mounting financial and operational pressure. The move was confirmed by BCB vice-chairman and BPL Governing Council member Shakhawat Hossain.
According to the board, the immediate priority is to stabilize the team and restore trust among players and stakeholders. After BCB Takes Ownership, the board announced it would directly oversee daily operations, including financial management and communication with players. Discussions with the squad were planned to ensure transparency and continuity, especially with the tournament set to begin in Sylhet.
The root of the crisis lies in persistent media speculation questioning the franchise’s financial credibility. Despite claims that franchise fees, guarantees, and player payments had not been met, many of these obligations were not contractually due at the early stage. However, the absence of official clarification allowed rumors to spread, damaging the team’s reputation and driving away potential sponsors.
In his letter to the board, the owner explained that sponsorship withdrawals severely impacted team preparations and cash flow. This resulted in delayed payments to players and growing uncertainty within the camp. With reputational damage escalating and no immediate recovery in sight, the owner requested that BCB Takes Ownership to protect the interests of the league and the franchise.
To ensure stability, the BCB has restructured the team’s management. Former Bangladesh captain Habibul Bashar has been appointed as mentor, while Mizanur Rahman Babul and Nafis Iqbal will serve as team managers. Bashar had previously stepped away citing personal reasons, but his return under board control reflects an effort to rebuild professionalism and discipline within the setup.
The crisis also affected player morale, as several cricketers reportedly left the team hotel due to unpaid dues just a day before the tournament opener. By stepping in decisively, BCB Takes Ownership not only to prevent further disruption but also to maintain the credibility and smooth operation of the Bangladesh Premier League.
READ MORE:
- Vaibhav Suryavanshi Creates History With a Record-Breaking 190 in Vijay Hazare Trophy
- Australia Squad for Boxing Day Test: Murphy and Richardson Called Up as Lyon, Cummins Miss Out
FAQ
Why did BCB take control of Chattogram Royals?
The franchise faced financial stress after sponsor withdrawals caused by reputational damage and media speculation.
Who will manage the team under BCB control?
Habibul Bashar is the mentor, while Mizanur Rahman Babul and Nafis Iqbal act as team managers.
Will Chattogram Royals continue in the BPL?
Yes, the team will continue competing under direct Bangladesh Cricket Board management.
Were players affected before the takeover?
Yes, delayed payments led some players to temporarily leave the team hotel.
Is this takeover permanent?
No, the arrangement applies only for the remainder of the current BPL season.