Durbar Rajshahi’s campaign in the ongoing Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) has been marred by off-field turmoil once again, as key personnel—including Pakistan’s Saad Nasim, assistant coach Iftikhar Anjum, and analyst Faisal—have parted ways with the franchise due to financial disputes.
Pakistan international Saad Nasim, who was drafted by Durbar Rajshahi, opted out of the tournament despite submitting his No Objection Certificate (NOC). The cricketer’s decision came after the franchise failed to cover his travel expenses, a recurring issue this year.
Durbar Rajshahi’s players had already protested against salary delays by refusing to practice but were assured of a resolution by the league and Bangladesh’s cricket board. However, this latest development once again raises serious questions about the franchise’s financial stability and professionalism.
Saad Nasim, a veteran of 3 ODIs and 3 T20Is, is currently playing first-class cricket in Pakistan for Ghani Glass instead.
Adding to Durbar Rajshahi’s woes, assistant coach Iftikhar Anjum and team analyst Faisal have also left their roles, citing non-payment of salaries. Both individuals reportedly raised their concerns multiple times, but with no resolution in sight, they took the drastic step of leaving midway through the season.
The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), which oversees the BPL, has remained silent on the matter, despite growing discontent within the team. The lack of intervention from the BCB has sparked criticism, as financial issues continue to plague franchises in the tournament. The situation with Durbar Rajshahi could set a worrying precedent if such disputes are not addressed, potentially deterring foreign players and staff from participating in future editions of the BPL.
As the tournament progresses, Rajshahi’s management will need to find solutions quickly, both to stabilize their squad and to restore confidence in their operations. Whether the BCB steps in to mediate remains to be seen, but for now, the controversy threatens to overshadow the cricket being played on the field, which has also faced scrutiny in recent months.
Whether the BPL and Durbar Rajshahi survive this episode remains to be seen.
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