BBPL’s focus on youth
The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) will be looking at young players in the upcoming Bangabandhu Bangladesh Premier League (BBPL) and try to integrate them into the national team during the T20 World Cup, scheduled for October next year.
“This BBPL is very crucial to us. The T20 World Cup is knocking on the door. Also, we have a lot of T20 matches coming. Our performance there will be vital. We are working in the areas where we have deficiencies,” chief selector Minhajul Abedin told reporters yesterday.
Bangladesh are yet to find a batsman who can consistently score quick runs in the lower order. Moreover, the BCB has already implemented a few guidelines that they believe will help them overcome their deficiencies ahead of the World Cup. The BCB has made it mandatory for BPL teams to employ at least one wrist spinner and a fast bowler capable of bowling over 140kmph.
And with the BBPL being organised solely by the board, the event is being touted as the perfect platform for youngsters to prove their mettle and make their way into the national team.
Minhajul shared those sentiments.
“We all want to see good performances from the players in these areas and we will see that in the BPL. If we get some players from here, then it will be a bonus,” Minhajul, who is also acting as the team director of the Cumilla Warriors, said.
“A lot of good overseas players are coming so our local cricketers will have a great opportunity to gain experience. In the shorter format, you have to be involved in the game in such a manner that every moment is a challenge. This is a huge opportunity for players who cannot cope with the T20 format. As the World Cup is coming up, we are working on our squad. This is a big opportunity for youngsters too. If they play well, it is good for the team,’’ said Minhajul, who believes that dew might be a big factor in BBPL matches.
