The 11th edition of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) achieved a record-breaking BDT 12.25 crore in ticket sales, nearly equaling the combined revenue of the previous ten seasons. This remarkable financial success was largely driven by the partial implementation of digital ticketing, despite initial distribution chaos that led to fan protests, vandalism, and arson at ticket booths near Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium.
Fan enthusiasm was at an all-time high, with stadiums in Dhaka, Sylhet, and Chattogram witnessing packed crowds throughout the tournament. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) President, Faruque Ahmed, announced on Monday that the ticketing system, modeled after the World Cup’s, played a significant role in boosting sales. “We have been incredibly successful in ticket sales this time, largely due to our shift towards digital platforms. Although we couldn’t go fully online, we sold 35% of tickets digitally in the first phase and 40% during the playoffs,” he stated in a video message.
In addition to ticket sales revenue, BCB secured BDT 1 crore per year through a three-year ticket rights agreement, pushing total earnings past BDT 13 crore this season. Given this financial success, BCB has finally addressed a long-standing demand from franchises. “Franchises have long demanded a share in revenue, but without clear profit figures, it was difficult to commit. However, this year, we will allocate a substantial portion of ticket sales revenue to the seven franchises,” Faruque confirmed.
Despite these financial achievements, the tournament faced its share of controversies. The issue of non-payment of players resurfaced, with Durbar Rajshahi’s foreign cricketers refusing to play against Rangpur Riders due to unpaid wages. Even last-minute attempts at payment failed to convince them, forcing Rajshahi to field an all-local XI with special BCB approval. This was not an isolated incident, as similar concerns arose during the Chattogram leg, with franchises such as Chattogram Kings also facing wage-related disputes. Franchise owner Samir Qader Chowdhury even admitted to withholding wages.
Reflecting on the tournament, Faruque acknowledged the initial ticketing challenges and financial complications faced by some franchises but remained optimistic about BPL’s overall success. “Yes, there were challenges, particularly with the new ticketing system. Some franchises also faced financial complications, leading to negative press. However, from an overall perspective—including attendance, pitch quality, ticket revenue, and broadcasting—the tournament has been a great success,” he remarked.
The high standard of cricket did not go unnoticed. Legendary West Indies fast bowler Curtly Ambrose, part of the commentary panel, praised the quality of the competition and playing conditions, calling it the best BPL in the last three years.
With this financial milestone, BCB now aims to enhance the league’s structure, ensuring long-term sustainability and continued growth.
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