48 Bangladeshi cricketers register for LPL 2026 draft

Ali Naseer · 25/05/2026 · 3 min read

A Strong Contingent Looking to Make Their Mark

The anticipation for the sixth edition of the Lanka Premier League (LPL) is reaching fever pitch as the player registration window has officially closed. With over 650 overseas cricketers throwing their hats into the ring, the competition for a roster spot is tougher than ever. Notably, 48 Bangladeshi cricketers register for LPL 2026 draft, signaling a growing desire among players from the nation to test their skills in the high-stakes environment of the Sri Lankan T20 circuit.

The Selection Process

Out of the massive pool of 650 applicants, tournament officials are currently vetting the talent to create a shortlist of approximately 310 players who will be eligible for the draft. The final selection event is scheduled to take place on June 1, where franchise owners will look to balance their squads with the best available domestic and international talent. The tournament itself is slated to kick off on July 17, with the grand finale set for August 8.

Key Bangladeshi Players in the Mix

While the full list remains expansive, reports have confirmed several high-profile and emerging names from Bangladesh who have entered their names. These include Shoriful Islam, Towhid Hridoy, Mahedi Hasan, Shamim Hossain, Parvez Hossain Emon, Tanzid Hasan Tamim, and Tanzim Hasan Sakib. The list continues with veterans like Mahmudullah Riyad, alongside performers such as Hasan Mahmud, Saif Hassan, Ripon Mondol, Afif Hossain, Rakibul Hasan, Mahidul Islam Ankon, Nayeem Hasan, Mukidul Islam, Samiun Basir Ratul, Ariful Islam, and Rony Talukdar.

It is worth noting that while many are entering the draft, star all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has bypassed the process entirely. His status is already confirmed as a direct signing for the Jaffna Kings, ensuring he remains a focal point of the league regardless of the draft results.

READ: Shan Masood Praises Bangladesh Pitch Quality Despite Series Whitewash

Global Representation at the LPL

The international interest in the LPL 2026 reflects the league’s rising prestige. Cricketers from 21 countries have entered the registration process. Pakistan leads the pack with 102 cricketers, followed by the West Indies with 75, and South Africa with 66. Bangladesh holds a strong position with its 48 entries, outpacing nations like New Zealand (41), Australia (24), England (15), and India (12). Furthermore, there has been a notable surge in interest from ICC associate nations, with players from the United Arab Emirates, the United States, and Ireland showing significant commitment.

What This Means for Bangladesh Cricket

The high registration numbers highlight the increasing global demand for Bangladeshi talent in franchise T20 cricket. As these players prepare for the draft on June 1, the focus will be on who can secure a contract and make a tangible impact during the league. Participating in the LPL provides a crucial platform for these athletes to gain exposure in foreign conditions, which is invaluable for their growth and readiness for future international assignments. As the countdown to July 17 begins, all eyes will be on which of these 48 cricketers manage to secure their place on the big stage.

Ali Naseer

Ali Naseer is a senior sports correspondent for The News International, known for his authoritative coverage of Pakistan cricket and his razor‑sharp technical analysis. A graduate of the University of Karachi, he began his career documenting club cricket in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the Northern Areas, bringing to light the raw fast‑bowling talent that has become Pakistan’s hallmark. Ali’s work now spans global ICC tournaments and every edition of the Pakistan Super League, where he is a familiar face in the press box. He combines an intimate knowledge of the domestic structure with an ability to break down high‑pressure match situations for a national readership. His columns on the art of reverse swing and the history of Pakistani pace bowlers have become essential reading for fans. Twice honoured by the APNS and his own paper, Ali remains dedicated to telling the stories of the players and places that keep Pakistan cricket alive.