DHAKA, Feb 25, 2026 (BSS)- The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has begun 
preparations for the inaugural Women's Bangladesh Premier League (WBPL), 
holding its first coordination meeting today at the Sher-e-Bangla National 
Cricket Stadium.

Speaking to the media after the meeting, BCB Women's Wing Chairperson Rubaba 
Dowla said the tournament is expected to feature several prominent 
international players.

"Several international players have already expressed interest in the 
tournament, and we will reveal their names later. In a few days, we will also 
inform you which teams are taking part," she said.

"The teams will contact the players and finalize their recruitment. What I 
can say for now is that some well-known star players have shown interest."

There will be no country-specific restrictions, as the tournament is open to 
all eligible overseas players, she added.

"We are open to everyone. This is a tournament for all. Whoever shows 
interest, and whichever teams want to recruit such players, can do so. It is 
open to all, so we will see how it unfolds," she continued.

Rubaba Dowla also confirmed that a draft system, rather than an auction, will 
be used for player selection.

"The draft system will be adopted for player selection, and we will organise 
a proper event for it. We also expect some international players to 
participate," she said.

"Each team must have a minimum of two overseas players and possibly three to 
four. We will finalize that soon," she added.

Two venues-- Dhaka and Chattogram-- will host the tournament. It will begin 
in Chattogram and conclude in Dhaka, with the final scheduled to be held at 
the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur on Pohela Boishakh.

"As you know, we had earlier announced that the tournament would take place 
between April 3 and April 15. However, we've now decided that matches will 
start on April 4 in Chattogram, and the final will be held in Dhaka on April 
14, which coincides with Pohela Boishakh (Bengali New Year). We plan to hold 
the closing ceremony on that day," she said.

In total, there will be six league matches plus one final for the inaugural 
edition of WBPL.

Chattogram will hold the inauguration ceremony while the closing ceremony 
will be held in Dhaka.

The Women's Wing Chairperson expressed hope that the tournament would provide 
a strong platform for local players to gain exposure and experience, helping 
them reach greater heights.

"Our players are performing very well and achieving great success. Many 
people across the country are being inspired by them," she said.

"We want to encourage them and provide a platform where they gain visibility 
and proper recognition. We are holding regular meetings, and since time is 
short, we will try to execute everything as planned," she concluded.