The deadlock in the Dhaka Premier League (DPL) situation is showing signs of thawing following a productive meeting between clubs and the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) on Thursday evening.
A gathering involving representatives from 10 clubs, along with BCB ad hoc committee president Tamim Iqbal and committee member Minhajul Abedin, took place to discuss the league’s future.
Ziaur Rahman Topu, speaking on behalf of Mohammedan, expressed optimism about commencing the league on either May 3 or 4. The decision on player transfers is pending, with clubs in agreement with the BCB on this matter.
In a press briefing, Topu revealed that clubs have reached a consensus on adopting a single-league format for this season, foregoing the usual structure of league phase, Super League, and relegation league.
The upcoming season will feature a condensed schedule with each team playing 11 matches to determine the champions. The change aims to mitigate potential disruptions caused by the impending rainy season, with discussions also focusing on utilizing reserve days effectively.
Although Legends of Rupganj and Brothers Union were absent from the meeting, they are reportedly supportive of the decisions made.
Tensions had previously risen between clubs and the board over alleged irregularities in the BCB election held on October 6 last year. The National Sports Council (NSC) intervened by dissolving the previous board and appointing Tamim as the head of an interim committee, facilitating the participation of club officials in the crucial DPL tournament.
