Durbar Rajshahi players boycott Practice over non-payment issues, Franchise issues Apology

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In a shocking turn of events, Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) team Durbar Rajshahi players boycotted team practice after serial non-payment of the players.

Players of Durbar Rajshahi boycotted their training session in Chattogram on January 15 due to unpaid fees. Local players of the franchise raised concerns about delayed payments, leading to their collective decision to halt practice.

Although the players resumed training the following day, Taskin Ahmed was absent, reportedly due to workload management.

The overseas players and coaching staff had received 25% of their payment following the team's fourth match on January 6. However, the franchise failed to pay the local players their dues, which led to the protest from the players.

This breach of commitment prompted Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) president Faruque Ahmed to intervene, holding discussions with team officials, captain Anamul Haque, and other players over the issue.

Franchise Apologises for Payment Delays

Jayed Ahmed, the operations in charge of Durbar Rajshahi, issued a public apology on behalf of the franchise, acknowledging the delays in payments. He clarified that the cancelled practice session was unrelated to the financial issues and explained that some players had taken a break upon arriving in Chattogram.

"We are committed from the team management to all cricketers that we will pay them by January 16," Jayed stated. He assured that 25% of the outstanding payments would be made in cash and another 25% via cheque, ensuring a total of 50% clearance by Thursday, January 16.

Jayed added, "We were late in giving the payment and we cannot deny it. We apologise to everyone for it because this shouldn't have been the case."

Practice Resumes Ahead of Key Match

Following negotiations mediated by BCB officials, including director Manjur Alam, Durbar Rajshahi resumed their practice session in Chattogram on Thursday (January 16). The franchise management confirmed that the team would prepare for their upcoming match against Sylhet Strikers, scheduled for Friday.

Speaking on behalf of the BCB president, Manjur Alam expressed optimism about resolving the issue.

"The president spoke directly to the team owners, captain, and players. We have a positive vibe from all parties. They will attend practice tomorrow, which is the most positive part of the negotiation," he said.

Rajshahi are currently placed 6th in the BPL 2024-25 table with 4 points in six matches.