The history of the Bangladesh Premier League

Last Updated on 24 February 2026

The Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) is the country’s flagship professional T20 cricket competition and one of South Asia’s most prominent franchise leagues. Those who visit the reliable bookmaker 1xBet can also wager on this tournament too.

Organized by the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), the BPL was conceived in the early 2010s as part of a global trend toward city-based T20 leagues. This was inspired by the commercial and sporting success of the Indian Premier League (IPL). The BCB formally established the BPL in 2011, and the inaugural season was held in February 2012. All seasons of the BPL are available for betting for those who give the 1xBet bookmaker a try, which is a highly reliable platform for those who want to try their luck with cricket.

The first edition featured six franchises and quickly captured public attention. Dhaka Gladiators won the inaugural title, setting the tone for what would become a competitive and commercially important tournament.

The early years (2012-2013) helped the league build credibility, attract international players, and establish a fan base across Bangladesh. However, the league also faced challenges, including governance issues and financial irregularities, which led to the suspension of franchises after the second season.

A strong return

After a brief hiatus, the BPL returned in 2015 with a revamped structure. This period marked a phase of growth and consolidation. It featured teams such as Comilla Victorians, Dhaka Dynamites, and Rangpur Riders as strong competitors. Comilla Victorians, in particular, became the most successful franchise in BPL history, winning multiple titles and developing a reputation for consistent performance.

In recent years, the BPL has seen renewed stability and scheduling certainty, with the International Cricket Council accommodating a regular window for the tournament in January and February. The 2024 season (BPL Season 10) and the 2025-26 season (the 12th edition) highlighted the league’s ongoing relevance, with Rajshahi Warriors winning the 2025-26 title.

Today, the Bangladesh Premier League stands as a central pillar of Bangladesh’s cricketing calendar, blending 3 elements:

• entertainment;
• player development;
• and international exposure.

All of this while continuing to adapt to the changing landscape of global T20 cricket.