Chattogram Royals captain Mahedi Hasan said his team is thinking only about the BPL 2026 final, even as uncertainty grows over Bangladesh’s participation in the T20 World Cup later this year.
Mahedi spoke to the media on the eve of the final at a time when the Bangladesh Cricket Board is locked in talks with the ICC over the World Cup schedule. The BCB has demanded a change of venue for Bangladesh’s matches from India to Sri Lanka, citing security concerns. However, ICC members voted against changing the fixtures, and Bangladesh have reportedly been given a day to confirm whether they will take part in the tournament.
Despite the off-field tension, Mahedi made it clear the dressing room remains focused on the title match.
“Look, all the players are focused on the BPL final tomorrow; everyone is preparing and thinking only about that,” he said. “The World Cup isn’t in our hands; it’s up to the management. Those of us in the World Cup team will go as per their instructions. It depends on the BCB.”
Asked how he feels standing one step away from the trophy, the Royals skipper kept it simple.
“Nothing specific. If we can play the kind of cricket we’ve been playing overall until the final, hopefully, something very good will happen,” Mahedi said.
Chattogram’s run to the final has also surprised many. After the BPL auction, questions were raised about whether the squad was balanced enough to challenge for the trophy. But the team, now being run directly by the board, became the first side to book a place in the final.
Mahedi credited the collective effort behind the turnaround.
“Everyone played a good role. Our team management and senior cricketers all played their parts well,” he said. “Regarding motivation or mental preparation for playing cricket, they managed things instantly, and I think that’s why everyone could play good cricket.”
Mahedi also spoke about the board’s involvement, saying the environment has remained stable even without a franchise owner in charge.
“No, no, since it’s a BCB team, BCB officials are involved here. But there hasn’t been a specific conversation with the President,” he said. “However, BCB officials talk to us and always congratulate us. They try to maintain the team environment just like the franchises did in the past.”
He added that the board has also provided financial support during the campaign.
“The BCB has even given us small bonuses. So, you can’t say it’s bad; the BCB is trying enough from their side,” he said.
On payments, Mahedi confirmed the squad has already received half of their remuneration.
“I think everyone has already received 50% of their remuneration. We aren’t worried about the board’s money because even if it’s a bit late, there’s no chance of missing it,” he said. “So, I don’t think any player is tensed about money.”
The Royals captain also opened up about his leadership style and said he has enjoyed the responsibility.
“Regarding captaincy—yes, Alhamdulillah, I am definitely enjoying it. But I am not a “calm and cool” captain like others; I am a bit of an aggressive captain. I am enjoying it the way I like,” he said.
Chattogram have now reached the BPL final for the third time in their history. Mahedi said the team has every reason to believe they can finally lift the trophy, but stressed that execution on the day will decide everything.
“Since we’ve reached the final, why wouldn’t we dream of the trophy? Everyone will,” he said. “But tomorrow will belong to those who play better cricket. Whoever performs well in all departments will win the trophy.”
He also praised opponents Rajshahi Warriors, calling them one of the strongest teams in the competition.
“Firstly, I think Rajshahi is one of the best teams in the BPL. They are a well-balanced team with good players in every department and have played good cricket throughout the tournament,” he said. “I liked the Rajshahi team the most.”
With the final set to be played at night, Mahedi highlighted the importance of the toss, especially due to dew.
“Definitely, the toss is very important in a night match. If you win the toss, you are mentally 10% ahead,” he said. “Then there’s the wicket and the dew factor.”
Mahedi also gave an update on his own fitness after a minor hand injury.
“Yes, I got hurt a bit, but Insha’Allah it will be fine. Hopefully, I can play tomorrow,” he said.
Before ending the session, he had a message for Chattogram supporters.
“Of course. they have supported Chattogram a lot on TV and Facebook. They should keep their faith and continue supporting us until tomorrow, Insha’Allah,” he said.
But when asked again about the World Cup situation, Mahedi repeated that the players are waiting for direction from the authorities.
“As a player, who wouldn’t want to play in the World Cup? Everyone would,” he said. “But it’s entirely the Board’s decision and the Government’s decision. They are our guardians; we should do whatever they tell us.”
