With the 12th edition of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) fast approaching, preparations are in full swing as teams fine-tune their plans. Among the six sides taking part this season, Noakhali Express will make their debut, and wicketkeeper-batter Mahidul Islam Ankon is set to play a key role for the new franchise.
Although Ankon has already made his Test and ODI debuts for Bangladesh, he is still waiting for his first international T20 appearance. With that goal in mind, the right-hander has set his sights firmly on the BPL, insisting his desire to perform remains constant.
Speaking to the media after a training session at the Cricketers’ Academy in Purbachal on Tuesday, Ankon said he was focused on continuous improvement.
“I always try to think about how I can improve,” he said. “Sometimes performances come, sometimes they don’t, but the hunger to perform is always there. I’m working hard to get better.”
Ankon was recently included in Bangladesh’s squad for the T20I series against Ireland but did not feature in a match. He did, however, take part in the Asia Cup Emerging Teams tournament in Qatar, where he struggled for form, scoring 32 runs in four innings with a top score of 27.
Looking to put that disappointment behind him, Ankon is optimistic about making an impact in the BPL.
“I didn’t perform as expected in the Emerging tournament,” he admitted. “But I’m very hopeful and confident that, Inshallah, I’ll be able to play good cricket.”
With the ICC T20 World Cup scheduled for February, the BPL represents the final major opportunity for Bangladeshi players to impress the selectors. Ankon believes strong performances in the tournament could open the door to a return to the national side.
“Every player wants to play good cricket and earn a place in the national team,” he said. “My goal is to contribute wherever I get the opportunity. If I can perform well, then, Inshallah, good opportunities will come.”
