Tamim Iqbal announces 2nd XI Championship in NCL

The Bangladesh Cricket Board is introducing a 2nd XI Championship in the National Cricket League, inspired by England's County Championship system.

Tamim Iqbal announced Thursday that the new tournament will begin this season with a three-day format, with plans for future expansion.

"If you look at the design of Bangladesh cricket, maximum cricket is centered around just one segment of players. Those who play for the national team are the ones playing BPL, BCL, and NCL," Tamim said.

"For those who play the third division, second division, or first division, there is no cricket for them other than playing those specific leagues. There are very few instances where a player has made it to the national team from the second or third division because we could never create that platform."

From this season, each team in the NCL will field both a First XI and Second XI. Chittagong and Dhaka will each have two teams.

"When we start the Second XI, we are engaging another 100-150 or 200 cricketers," he added.

Tamim explained the tactical benefits: "Suppose Rajshahi has four left-handed batsmen and Dhaka doesn't have an off-spinner. An off-spinner playing in the 2nd XI can get an opportunity based on his performance."

The BCB will provide standard facilities and match fees for 2nd XI players.

Using the Jofra Archer example, Tamim noted the value for returning injured players: "When Taskin Ahmed gets injured, after returning from injury we send him to a first-class match and tell him not to bowl more than 6 overs. Taskin will go to the second XI, where he can do his buildup in a relaxed way."

Tamim confirmed the process and budgeting are complete. He also announced a 27,000 square-foot canopy shade at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium and plans for solar panels.

Regarding elections, Tamim expects a roadmap by May 3 when the ad-hoc committee meets. The NSC dissolved the previous BCB board on April 7 citing "huge-scale irregularities."

Tamim confirmed he will run for president in the next BCB election and expects elections within 30-45 days after the process begins.