Dhaka Premier League

Dhaka Premier League

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The Dhaka Premier Division Cricket League, also known as the Dhaka Premier League, is a club List A tournament in Bangladesh which has been contested annually since the 1973–74 season. It has had List A status since the 2013–14 season. It is run by the Cricket Committee of Dhaka Metropolis.

History

Since its inauguration in 1973–74 the league has been the premier club cricket competition in Bangladesh. Occupying more than 200 players for two months each year, it is widely regarded as the "finishing school" for cricketers in Bangladesh. It gained List A status starting with the 2013–14 tournament, thus superseding the National Cricket League One-Day as Bangladesh's main List A competition.

In the years from 1973–74 to 2011–12, Abahani Limited won the championship 17 times. Other winners were Mohammedan Sporting Club nine times, Biman Bangladesh Airlines five times, Victoria Sporting Club four times, Old DOHS Sports Club twice and Brothers Union once. There was no tournament in 2012–13.

To commemorate the centenary of the birth of the founding father of Bangladesh, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the 2019–20 season of the league was named "Bangabandhu Dhaka Premier Division Cricket League 2019–20". However, the competition was postponed shortly after starting and later abandoned, owing to the COVID-19 pandemic. The next tournament, in 2021–22, was officially named the "Bangabandhu Dhaka Premier Division Cricket League 2021–2022 sponsored by Walton".

The Dhaka Premier League (DPL) is a prestigious domestic cricket tournament held annually in Bangladesh, showcasing the best of local talent and fostering the growth of the sport in the country. Established in 1993, the DPL has evolved into a highly competitive league that attracts both seasoned players and emerging stars from across the nation.

Typically played in a limited-overs format, the tournament features a mix of professional clubs and franchises representing various regions of Dhaka. The league operates on a round-robin basis, culminating in playoffs and a final that determines the champion. Matches are held at iconic venues, including the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium, providing a vibrant atmosphere for fans and players alike.

The DPL serves as a vital platform for cricketers to showcase their skills, with many players using the tournament as a stepping stone to national selection. It also plays a crucial role in the development of cricket in Bangladesh, promoting grassroots initiatives and nurturing young talent.

With its rich history, passionate fan base, and commitment to excellence, the Dhaka Premier League continues to be a cornerstone of Bangladeshi cricket, celebrating the spirit of the game and uniting communities through the love of cricket.