While Bangladeshi cricketers have been getting fewer opportunities in franchise leagues, particularly in T20 cricket, this is largely due to the perception of their limited capabilities in this format. However, opportunities for Bangladeshi players are gradually increasing. This is not solely because Bangladeshi players have improved significantly; it’s also because many new leagues are emerging worldwide, creating more opportunities for cricketers. Additionally, many of these leagues, unlike the IPL and BPL, are not restricted to a specific number of domestic and foreign players; instead, they are composed entirely of foreign players, with the Abu Dhabi T10 League being a prime example. Despite the increased opportunities for foreign players in these leagues, only four Bangladeshi players will be participating in the Abu Dhabi T10 League this year.
The Abu Dhabi T10 League has been held since 2017, and this year marks its eighth edition. Shakib Al Hasan will captain the Bangladeshi-owned team, the Bangla Tigers, making him the first Bangladeshi cricketer to lead a team in the T10 League.
Unlike last season, which featured eight teams, this year’s league will have ten teams, potentially increasing opportunities for Bangladeshi players.
Among the Bangladeshi players, Shakib Al Hasan (captain) and Towhid Hridoy will play for the Bangla Tigers, while Ziaur Rahman and Shahidul Islam will represent the Northern Warriors.
With only four Bangladeshi players across ten teams, it is evident that Bangladesh has a limited pool of players suitable for this format, even as other countries like Afghanistan, the West Indies, and Pakistan have numerous players participating. However, the increase in opportunities for Bangladeshi players is a positive sign. Hopefully, this trend will continue. Best wishes to all.
