The twelfth edition of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) began at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium with a solemn tribute ahead of the opening fixture between the Sylhet Titans and Rajshahi Warriors. Players, officials, and Bangladesh Cricket Board executives observed a minute’s silence in memory of Osman Bin Hadi, convener of Inquilab Mancha, who was killed in a terrorist attack. Sylhet wicketkeeper-batter Mushfiqur Rahim was also seen offering prayers during the tribute.
The ceremony formally opened with the national anthem, followed by a daylight fireworks display launched from the roof of the media center. Moments later, BCB President Aminul Islam Bulbul released helium balloons to officially declare the tournament open, as another 25,000 colorful balloons ascended from around the boundary line. The BPL theme song rang out across the stadium, prompting rousing chants of “Sylhet! Sylhet!” from the packed stands.
A cultural program is scheduled after the Titans vs Warriors match, featuring dance performances by artists wearing all six franchise jerseys. The evening will conclude with a concert led by Fuad Al Muqtadir, lasting around 45 minutes before the second match of the day gets underway.
