Chattogram Dropped as Venue for Remaining BPL 2025-26 Matches

The Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) governing council has announced that Chattogram will no longer host the remaining matches of the BPL 2025-26 season. This decision follows the postponement of matches due to the death of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. Sylhet will now host the matches until January 12, with Dhaka taking over for the playoffs and final. Logistical challenges and scheduling conflicts were cited as reasons for the venue change, amidst various difficulties faced by the tournament, including franchise withdrawals and unfortunate incidents.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 1, 2026, 08:53 IST

BPL Governing Council's Venue Decision

The governing council of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) has announced that Chattogram will no longer host the remaining matches of the BPL 2025-26 season. This decision follows the postponement of the tournament for two days due to the passing of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, who died on December 30 at the age of 80 while receiving treatment at Evercare Hospital. The matches will now continue in Sylhet until January 12, with Dhaka set to host three additional match days, culminating in the playoffs and the grand finale on January 23.

Reasons Behind Venue Change

Iftekhar Rahman, the BPL member secretary, elaborated on the reasons for relocating the matches from Chattogram. He explained that logistical challenges were a significant factor. "There was no gap in our schedule," Iftekhar stated. "Shifting broadcast equipment between Sylhet and Chattogram would require at least two days. Since we had already postponed matches on Monday and Tuesday, moving to Chattogram was not feasible."

"While it's disappointing for Chattogram, starting the tournament there would have meant Sylhet missing out. Another critical factor was the BPL final date; we couldn't afford to shift it even by a day, as the Bangladesh team needs adequate preparation time for the T20 World Cup," he added.

Challenges Faced by BPL 2025-26

The current BPL season has encountered several challenges. Just before the tournament commenced on December 26, the owner of Chattogram Royals withdrew from the franchise. Additionally, Khaled Mahmud, the coach of Noakhali Express, resigned due to insufficient practice facilities. The tournament also faced a tragic incident when Mahbub Ali Zaki, the assistant coach of Dhaka Capitals, passed away shortly before their match against Rajshahi Warriors.