Chattogram Kings Reach BPL Final Amid Fresh Controversy

Sports Desk

In a dramatic finish on Wednesday night, the Chattogram Kings defeated Khulna Tigers in the last-ball thriller to secure a spot in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) final. Despite the victory, controversy continues to surround the franchise.

Model Yasa Sagar, who served as the team’s host, has accused the Kings of failing to pay her agreed remuneration. She claimed she was pressured to participate in advertisements instead of receiving her dues.

In the second qualifier at Mirpur, Khulna posted a competitive 163, powered by Shimron Hetmyer’s explosive 33-ball 63. However, Khulna’s efforts were eclipsed by Chattogram’s late-game heroics, including Khawaja Nafeez’s half-century and crucial lower-order contributions from Aliss Al Islam (17 off 7) and Arafat Sunny (18 off 13), clinching a nail-biting win.

This marks Chattogram Kings’ second BPL final, their first since 2013. However, their return has reignited memories of past controversies, including unpaid player wages and match-fixing allegations from their previous stint. The franchise was absent from the league for several years, reportedly due to unresolved financial disputes with the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB).

This season, controversies have persisted. The franchise, owned by BNP leader Giasuddin Quader’s son, Samir Quader Chowdhury, faced criticism for unpaid dues to multiple players. Samir’s dismissive acknowledgment of the issue has fueled further backlash.

As the Kings prepare for the final, their on-field success remains overshadowed by unresolved disputes and allegations, casting a cloud over their journey in the league.