The Bangladesh Cricket Board said it is confident of starting the Dhaka Premier League in June after it held a successful meeting with the representatives of the clubs on Monday.
BCB president Nazmul Hasan attended the meeting, which discussed some new formats including the introduction of a new payment method for the players to rein in some illogical demands.
‘It was an open discussion among us,’ BCB president Nazmul told reporters after the meeting.
‘The clubs told us about their problems some of which I am personally aware of. We discussed the ways, how we can solve the problems.
‘At the same time we are also aware of the players’ interest. Considering all sides we are thinking of a new format. Nothing has been finalised again. We will sit again after seven days. Hopefully then we will be able to announce the kick-off date for the league,’ said Nazmul.
The league, which is the main source of income for the local cricketers, became uncertain as the clubs were reluctant to play without the national players. The problem aggravated after the selectors barred some other cricketers from playing the league as they were carrying injuries.
In the absence of national players, who are busy in Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe for the last two and a half months, and some other top players – even mid-level cricketers – demanded huge money for which the clubs refused to play.
Former runners-up Gazi Tanks, who have new owners this season, came up with a huge budget making it further difficult for some traditional powerhouses like Abahani, Mohammedan SC.
BCB president Nazmul agreed that unlike the past now there are more title aspirants now.
‘Every year the clubs are facing some new competitions. In the past we have seen only two big teams in Abahani, Mohammedan. Now Gazi, Prime Bank, Kalabagan, Victoria all came forward. They also want to be champions,’ he said.
‘In one sense this is good news for us. But at the same time, it makes life difficult for some clubs. Only two or three clubs can now meet the soaring demands,’ added Nazmul.
‘We are trying to prevent this unhealthy competition and find out a formula so that the clubs do not face any undue pressure.
‘In today’s meeting most of the clubs agreed if we introduce a system like this [players’ category] it will be good for all. There are several proposals in this regard. Hopefully we will find a solution next week,’ he said.
-With New Age input
