Tamim Iqbal Doubts BPL Return as BCB Reports Heavy Financial Losses
Tamim Iqbal has expressed doubts over the Bangladesh Premier League taking place this year following substantial financial losses suffered by the Bangladesh Cricket Board. The board reported a total loss of 40 million taka across the tournament's last two editions.
Speaking in Mirpur on Thursday, August 20, cricketer Tamim Iqbal addressed the potential cancellation or delay of the upcoming Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) season, casting serious doubt on whether the tournament will be organized this time around.
Addressing reporters regarding the future of the domestic T20 competition, Tamim emphasized that he would prefer a well-organized tournament even if it requires an extended preparation period. He stated that whether it takes 12 months or 14 months, he wants the BPL to be conducted properly, otherwise, it should not happen at all. He added that he personally does not believe the BPL will be organized this year.
Tamim also acknowledged the frustration players would feel if the tournament is called off or postponed, admitting that financial losses will occur. However, he noted that the players also understand the tournament needs to be of a standard that the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) can take pride in, questioning whether anyone could be proud of what has happened over the past few years.
Meanwhile, the financial viability of the tournament has come under intense scrutiny from the cricket board itself. The Bangladesh Cricket Board revealed that the BPL has incurred a massive financial deficit, suffering a total loss of 40 million taka across its last two editions.
Elaborating on the board's current financial stance and priorities, the BCB chief pointed out the stark reality of running the cash-strapped tournament. The BCB head stated that if a tournament results in a loss of 20 million taka for them, then organizing such an event simply does not feature on their priority list at the present moment.
