The disappointment of missing out on the T20 World Cup 2026 is still fresh, but Bangladesh cricket has already been staring into alternatives. With the global stage suddenly taken away, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has announced a short, three-team domestic T20 tournament starting February 5, aimed at keeping its players match-ready and happy.
Bangladesh’s team for the T20 World Cup was named. The players had nothing in their hands and they had to bear the brunt of all the political drama.
Bangladesh were dropped from the World Cup after refusing to travel to India, despite repeated assurances from the International Cricket Council (ICC) over security. Scotland were eventually named as their replacement. A decision that was accepted by Bangladesh. But the players remained frustrated and without a marquee assignment just weeks before the tournament.
Bangladesh turn to domestic cricket after World Cup exclusion
Against that backdrop, the BCB’s response has been swift. The new competition will feature three teams led by some of Bangladesh’s most recognisable faces. According to Cricbuzz, Litton Das will captain Dhumketu XI, Najmul Hossain Shanto will lead Durbar XI, while Akbar Ali takes charge of Duronto XI. The group-stage matches will be played between February 5 and 7, with the final scheduled for February 9.
The board has confirmed a total payout of Tk 2.5 crore (INR 1.86 crore) through prize money and match fees. This is some good news for Bangladeshi players despite the BCB eyeing a major loss after getting stripped of participating in the World Cup. Officials have also introduced an Impact Player rule to add variety, while a fitness camp at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium will begin from February 1.
