Noakhali Express, one of the newest franchises in the Bangladesh Premier League, has confirmed its first major overseas signing for the 2026 season. Sri Lankan wicketkeeper-batter Kusal Mendis will join the team, marking his debut in the BPL.
Mendis is a familiar name in global T20 leagues. He regularly features in the PSL, IPL, LPL, and SA20. Despite his experience in other leagues, this will be his first time playing in Bangladesh’s top domestic T20 tournament. Earlier, he was close to joining Sylhet Titans, but talks reportedly collapsed in the final stages of negotiation. Noakhali Express, however, managed to reach an agreement and secured him as their marquee signing.
The team will be led by former Bangladesh captain Khaled Mahmud Sujon, who has been appointed as the head coach. Under BPL rules, franchises are allowed to sign two local players directly before the auction. Noakhali Express has already completed its direct local signings by bringing in Soumya Sarkar and Hasan Mahmud.
Soumya Sarkar, who played for Rangpur Riders last season, has been in strong form in recent ODIs. Hasan Mahmud has been a consistent member of Bangladesh’s white-ball squad and will strengthen Noakhali Express’s pace attack.
With these signings, Noakhali Express has set a strong foundation ahead of the player auction. Other franchises have also been busy completing their direct local signings to prepare for the upcoming BPL season.
