BCB to get rid of two tier National Cricket League

Bangladesh Cricket Board is set to scrap the two tier National Cricket League, the nation’s first traditional first class tournament, from next season. 

The two tier NCL was introduced  by BCB back in the 2015-16 season that incorporated promotion and relegation in an attempt to bring competitiveness. However, they have now decided to abolish and opt for a round robin league after the end of the upcoming edition of the NCL, starting from October 10. 

It is learnt that BCB’s technical committee has already put forward a proposal to the board in this sense and is likely to seek approval for it. 

As per the proposal a divisional team can retain seven players while they will have the chance to choose other players via players draft system.  

BCB chief selector and head of technical committee, Minhajul Abedin, confirmed the development on Thursday. 

"Yes, we have proposed to demolish two-tier NCL and intend to play the tournament through round robin league with home and away matches," said Minhajul, emphasising that home and away matches will enhance competition. "We played home and away NCL earlier and it was very competitive and we expect the same from the coming season if the proposal is approved by the board."

Another official stated that the biggest challenge with two tier NCL was the fact all the players were not able to face one another.

There are several instances where we have found the leading batsman of the country don't have the opportunity to play the leading bowler in NCL as they are playing in different tiers and this cannot go on forever because you can only be tested when you are facing tough opponents," said the official. "You will see certain divisions have five pace bowlers or say three wicket keepers and they are not ready to exchange their players even though they cannot accommodate everyone in their playing XI.

"When the teams can retain seven to eight and have the chance to pick another seven cricketers from the player's draft, they will not be ready to fill their squad with five to six pace bowlers or spinners as they need to bring balance in their team. In that case, the cricketers who were warming the bench in a certain division will have the opportunity to play the tournament," he said.

He also addressed the speculation that cricketers might not be comfortable playing for incompatible divisions. 

This is something (representing division that they don't belong to) we talked about but in the end, when cricketers realise that the system which will be in place is expected to benefit them, they will welcome it. If you are good enough, your division will retain you. And to make sure he can represent his division, his urge to perform will be much higher than before."