The upcoming Dhaka Premier Division Cricket League (DPL) 2025-26 season is generating excitement with expanded facilities, new initiatives, and the promise of increased competition. The tournament kicks off today at six venues, bringing a sense of relief to players following a period of uncertainty.
The absence of national Test players in the initial six rounds until May 20, due to Bangladesh’s Test series against Pakistan, has been confirmed by Shahriar Nafees, the cricket operations in-charge of the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB).
Anticipation for a more competitive season is high, with defending champions Abahani skipper Mosaddek Hossain expressing confidence in the balanced squads this year. Mosaddek believes that the level playing field among at least four competitive teams could lead to unpredictable outcomes.
Mohammedan captain Tawhid Hridoy echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing unity and expressing relief that the tournament is finally commencing after a prolonged period of uncertainty, which also impacted lower division cricketers.
This season holds special significance due to the uncertainties leading up to it. Concerns over BCB’s legitimacy led to threats of boycott by clubs, but the intervention of an ad hoc committee led by Tamim Iqbal helped resolve the impasse. Tamim Iqbal, along with State Minister for Youth and Sports Aminul Haque, will be part of the opening ceremony.
Furthermore, Mohammedan skipper Tawhid Hridoy will not carry forward the remaining three matches of his suspension from last season, as per CCDM coordinator Mohammad Salim. The recent initiatives by the ad hoc committee, led by Tamim, such as improved medical support, fitness-focused meal plans, and reinstatement of Anti-Corruption Unit protocols, have fostered a positive environment around the competition.
All 12 teams will be in action on the inaugural day, with Abahani facing Dhaka Leopards and Mohammedan playing City Club. The tournament will follow a single-league format this year, with 66 matches scheduled and provisions for reserve days to minimize disruptions. The team topping the table will claim the championship, while the two lowest-ranked teams will face relegation to the Dhaka First Division Cricket League.
