The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) took over ownership of Chattogram Royals on Wednesday, 25 December 2025, after the franchise owner withdrew. This happened a day before the start of BPL 2025-26. The move stemmed from the owner’s inability to secure sponsors due to negative media coverage. Chattogram Royals played their first match as planned under BCB management.
This development highlights ongoing challenges in Bangladesh’s premier T20 league. BPL 2025 draws significant attention across South Asia, where cricket unites millions. Instability in franchise operations could affect player confidence and fan engagement in a region that includes powerhouses like India and Pakistan. Reliable league structures support talent development and economic benefits through sponsorships and tourism.
BCB Takeover Chattogram Royals: The Details
The BCB received a letter from Triangle Services Limited, the Chattogram Royals owner, on 24 December 2025. The letter cited difficulties in finding sponsors. BPL chairman Iftekhar Rahman confirmed the handover. “They have given the BCB a letter three hours ago so we have officially taken over the team,” Rahman said. “It is an unexpected situation. The franchise wrote in the letter that due to media reports, they couldn’t find sponsors for the team.”
BCB spokesperson Shakhawat Hossain added clarity. “We have taken over the ownership of the team, and the board will now run it,” Shakhawat stated. “We will meet with the players soon to discuss the next steps.” The BCB appointed Habibul Bashar as team director, Mizanur Rahman Babul as head coach, and Nafees Iqbal as manager to ensure smooth operations.
Chattogram Royals proceeded with their opening match against Noakhali Express on Friday, 26 December 2025, at Sylhet International Cricket Stadium. Under BCB oversight, Chattogram Royals won by 65 runs. They posted 174 runs, with Mirza Tahir Baig scoring 80 off 69 balls to earn player of the match. Noakhali Express managed 109 in reply. This result provided positive BPL 2025 news amid the ownership drama.
The takeover ensures Chattogram Royals remain in the league for BPL 2025-26. The season features six teams, down from seven last year. Four new franchises, including Chattogram Royals, joined this edition. The BCB had sold rights to Triangle Services Limited last month, but issues arose quickly.
Reasons for the BCB Takeover Chattogram Royals
Media reports played a role in the sponsor shortfall. Earlier in December, the BCB addressed concerns about Chattogram Royals. On 9 December 2025, the board confirmed the franchise had settled fees and bank guarantees. However, two individuals linked to the team appeared in a BCB corruption inquiry. This may have deterred potential sponsors.
Rahman emphasised integrity. “We have been strict about integrity and player payment this season,” he said. “We don’t want a situation like the Rajshahi franchise last year.” Last season, Durbar Rajshahi faced payment delays, leading to player boycotts and government intervention. Such incidents have plagued BPL since its 2012 inception.
Chattogram Royals had participated in the player auction but struggled post-purchase. The owner, Kayum Rashed, spoke to local media about challenges. The BCB’s swift action prevented disruption to BPL 2025 schedules.
Impact on BPL 2025 News and League Stability
This event adds to BPL 2025 news headlines. The league has faced calls for reform due to recurring problems. Payment issues improved between 2016 and 2019 but resurfaced recently. The BCB aimed for a strong BPL 2025-26, sticking to the December-January window despite franchise recruitment hurdles.
In South Asia, BPL competes with established leagues like the IPL. Stability is crucial for attracting international talent. Chattogram Royals include players like Mahedi Hasan, who featured in post-match conferences. The takeover could boost confidence if managed well.
Fan reactions on social media showed mixed views. Some praised the BCB for quick resolution, while others worried about long-term viability. BPL 2025 attendance and viewership may reflect this sentiment.
Background
The Bangladesh Premier League launched in 2012 as a T20 competition modelled on global formats. Early editions suffered from payment disputes and organisational lapses. From 2016 to 2019, improvements led to better player participation. However, last season’s issues with Durbar Rajshahi highlighted persistent flaws.
The BCB governs cricket in Bangladesh, overseeing national teams and domestic events. For BPL 2025-26, the board reduced teams to six for better quality. New franchises like Chattogram Royals aimed to expand reach. The Chattogram Royals name evokes regional pride, representing the port city.
Ownership models in BPL involve private entities buying rights for cycles. The current five-year cycle started this season. Triangle Services Limited’s withdrawal marks the first such incident in BPL 2025.
Cricket in Bangladesh holds cultural significance. Successes like the 2015 World Cup quarter-finals boosted popularity. BPL 2025 serves as a platform for emerging stars, contributing to South Asian cricket ecosystem.
What’s Next
The BCB will manage Chattogram Royals for the remainder of BPL 2025-26. Upcoming matches include Chattogram Royals versus other teams in the schedule. The league runs until January 2026, with finals in Dhaka.
Officials plan meetings with players to address concerns. Sponsor searches continue under BCB. This could set precedents for future ownership disputes in BPL 2025.
As BPL 2025 progresses, focus shifts to on-field action. The takeover underscores the need for robust governance to sustain the league’s growth.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, December 27th, 2025
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