"The Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) governing council made it clear on Thursday that despite facing numerous challenges, they are not open to welcoming IPL franchises due to concerns about losing control over the tournament's rights.
Even as IPL franchises invest heavily in various franchise leagues worldwide, the BPL is grappling to secure its own standing. Ismail Haider Mallick, a member secretary of the BPL governing council, shared the council's stance with reporters at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium.
He stated, "They (IPL franchises) don't want to come, or maybe there is no reason to come. They (IPL franchises) approached us many times. The board's decision was to run the tournament according to our country's style. We don't want to do something where the tournament's rights will not be in our hands and will go to someone else."
Mallick acknowledged that the BPL is currently losing money as they are unwilling to entertain surrogate betting companies in the league. However, he hinted that financial constraints might force a change in their approach in the future.
Due to the strict laws in the country prohibiting gambling establishments, the BPL is cautious about involving betting businesses. Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib al Hasan had to withdraw from a deal with Betwinner following an ultimatum from the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB).
Mallick explained, "There was a question about surrogate betting companies, and for these reasons, we don't take the risk. If an outside sponsor is not a corporate entity, then going to an agency, our experience is not that good. Last year we could have earned 10 Crores more from media rights, but we didn't because we shut down betting sites."
He highlighted the economic challenges faced globally and cited examples from the IPL and Big Bash, emphasizing the difficulty of conducting a T20 tournament in the current climate. Mallick mentioned that while most national teams accept surrogates, the BPL is cautious, adding that they might consider welcoming surrogate betting houses in cricket in the future.
Addressing concerns about revenue sharing, Mallick stated that they might consider it if franchise fees increase tenfold from the current BDT 1.5 Crores. He explained, "Whether we will go for revenue sharing is a matter for the BCB, and the board gives us a guideline, and we follow that in running the tournament."
He concluded by emphasizing the need to consider the financial and economic conditions in the country to sustainably run the tournament."
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