BPL’s Rangpur Riders looking to sign David Warner and Chris Morris

Bangladesh Premier League is slowly gaining popularity parallel to other domestic leagues of the world. Into its fifth edition, the league has attracted many international stars who will feature in this year’s tournament. As per latest reports, the Rangpur Riders are trying to approach swashbuckling Australian batsman David Warner to feature in their team for the upcoming edition of BPL.

The eight teams playing this season are Barisal Bulls, Chittagong Vikings, Comilla Victorians, Dhaka Dynamites, Khulna Titans, Rajshahi Kings, Rangpur Riders and Sylhet Royals. Players like Thisara Perera, Samuel Badree, Ravi Bopara, Johnson Charles, Kusal Perera, Chris Gayle, Arafat Sunny and Rubel Hossain have been confirmed by the Riders. However, as per bdcrictime.com, they want more big names in their squad before the players draft which will be held in September.

They are looking to sign David Warner and Chris Morris, both of whom have played in various franchise cricket tournaments around the world. Ishtiaq Sadek, the chief executive of Rangpur Riders was quoted as saying, “Fans and spectators want to see always blistering knocks from the batsmen. We are going to make a balanced team by taking all-rounders in the squad. We are talking with Warner and Chirs Morris. Hopefully, we will be able to ensure their inclusion soon.”

60 matches to be played 

The fifth edition will begin on November 4, 2017, with the defending champions, Dhaka Dynamites hosting the first game at their home stadium. The player draft will be held on 6 September 2017, and as per the rules, a team can purchase a minimum of 10 and a maximum of 13 local players. A total of 60 matches will be played in the tournament, and the final will be hosted by Dhaka.

Also, players of category A-plus in the league will enjoy the right to choose the franchises they want to play in. It is also to be decided whether five foreign players will be allowed in a playing XI or four.