New champions guaranteed as Chattogram, Rajshahi clash in finale

The Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) will crown a new champion on Friday when Chattogram Royals meet Rajshahi Warriors in the final of the 12th edition at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur. The match will begin at 6:00 pm Bangladesh time. 

Unlike previous seasons, there was no official photoshoot ahead of the final, with the trophy set to be unveiled on matchday at 4:30 pm.

Rajshahi, led by Najmul Hossain Shanto, have enjoyed a dream debut season as a new franchise. They finished top of the points table in the league phase and earned two opportunities to reach the final. After narrowly losing the first qualifier to Chattogram, they responded strongly by outplaying Sylhet Titans in the second qualifier to set up a rematch.

“We’re very happy. It’s a big moment for the Rajshahi owners because they are new, and reaching the final in the first season is special. We’re pleased with the way we played,” Shanto said.

Although Rajshahi were the most consistent side in the league stage, Chattogram have had the edge in this rivalry, winning two of the three meetings between the teams. Shanto, however, said his side would focus on execution rather than past results.

“We won’t think about the result. We’ll stick to our process and try to execute our plans. A final is a big occasion, but we need to stay calm and clear-headed,” he said.

Shanto also highlighted fielding as a key factor behind Rajshahi’s run. “The catching has been outstanding. When the ball goes up, you feel confident it will be taken. The energy in the field has been high throughout,” he added.

Chattogram, meanwhile, have scripted one of the tournament’s most remarkable turnarounds. On the eve of the BPL, the franchise was taken over by the Bangladesh Cricket Board after the original owners withdrew due to financial issues, leaving the squad hastily assembled and widely written off.

Under the leadership of Sheikh Mehedi Hasan, however, the Royals have defied expectations. Mehedi has contributed with both bat and ball, while Shoriful Islam has emerged as the tournament’s leading wicket-taker, with Tanvir Islam, Mohammad Naim Sheikh, Adam Rossington and Mahmudul Hasan Joy also playing key roles.

“Everyone has played their part. The team that performs better in all departments on the day will win the title,” Mehedi said.