Bangladesh Cricket Board’s (BCBs) decision to postpone the inaugural season of the Women’s Bangladesh Premier League (WBPL) has disappointed the participants. Originally scheduled in April from 4 to 14, the tournament has now been shifted to July 2026. The decision has raised concerns over BCB’s commitment towards women’s cricket.
On Wednesday, March 11, the BCB had announced the revised schedule of the three-team WBPL T20 event which will be held from July 10 to 21 across Bogura, Chattogram and Dhaka. According to the board the changes were brought in after conducting discussions with franchise owners and stakeholders. The team’s have requested additional time for the formation of squads, international recruitment and planning of operations in preparation for the tournament.
The postponement brought in has left the players and officials in frustration with the decision. Ahead of the event, the players’ draft has been scheduled on March 14. It is understood that the decision comes into effect with the postponement of the Women’s Dhaka Premier Division and First Division Leagues. The events have been put to a halt due to clubs’ protests against the board.
On a disappointing note, the Bangladeshi team have suffered from the decision as the tournament could have served them a crucial preparation for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in England and Wales in June – July 2026. However, the home team could benefit with the upcoming home series against Sri Lanka followed by a tri-nation series in Scotland.
Players blow frustrations over BCB’s decision
On Thursday, March 12, Bangladesh Women’s national team opener Dilara Akter during an interview with The Daily Star shared her views on the matter highlighting the need of the hour for the team having less experience in the T20 format.
She said, “Everyone is talking about how we had a good chance to play before the World Cup. We don’t get to play T20 matches that often. It will definitely have some impact. Playing matches is important. We could have had a good opportunity here, but it didn’t happen.”
Meanwhile, former captain Rumana Ahmed pointed out her concerns over BCB’s planning.
“Such a league was necessary. It would have been excellent preparation for the World Cup and provided a competitive environment. The Dhaka Premier League was postponed to accommodate this tournament,” she said.
On the other hand Rumana questioned the absence of a scheduled calendar and fixtures for women’s cricket needed for preparations ahead of major tournaments.
“Before the last ODI World Cup, the girls couldn’t play proper preparation matches. Even the First Division and Premier League have no fixed schedule. Women’s cricket remains in a state of uncertainty,” Rumana said.
(Inputs sourced from The Daily Star)
