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The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has shortlisted five firms as candidates to take over sports marketing and event consultancy for the upcoming Bangladesh Premier League (BPL). Following the EOI submission deadline on July 26, these elite firms have been selected to pitch detailed plans and financial proposals within days.
🔍 Who Made the Cut?
The five firms advancing to the next evaluation stage are:
Apex Sports Consulting (UAE)
IMG (USA)
Real Impact & Absolute Legends Sports (India)
The IPG Group & Mind Tree Limited (UAE/Bangladesh)
Transport Group (Bangladesh)
IMG stands out with previous experience in the Indian Premier League, while IPG Group, partnered with Mind Tree Limited, brings ties to Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and regional cricket bodies. Real Impact and Absolute Legends Sports have delivered broadcast services for BCB and football events in Bangladesh. Notably, Transport Group is the only home‑grown contender among the five.
đź“… Countdown to Decision
Presentations & proposals are scheduled for July 30–31, 2025.
The BPL Governing Council will review offers and finalize the appointment.
The aim is to issue the formal contract by early August, with franchise allocations and the players’ draft planned shortly thereafter.
This timeline reflects the BCB’s commitment to fast-tracking the process ahead of the December–January tournament window.
🧠Strategic Vision and Stakeholder Engagement
The selected consultancy will craft a comprehensive strategy covering:
Commercial structure and revenue distribution
Media rights and sponsor acquisition
Brand activation and fan engagement
Compliance with ICC and ACC guidelines
The BCB has also proactively consulted players, media, franchises, and sponsors to shape a more professional and structured BPL model—addressing longstanding concerns about transparency and stability in the league.
🎯 Why It Matters
Institutional overhaul: The previous BPL faced criticism over mismanagement and opaque revenue handling. The new consultant is expected to bring professionalism and consistency to the league.
Long‑term growth: Multi-year franchise agreements and revenue-sharing models aim to attract serious investors while enhancing BCB’s financial viability.
Global ambition: Aligning BPL with international best practices could enhance the league’s marketability and competitiveness.
🗣️ From the Inside
“There is a process where shortlists would be made, presentations would be given, financial negotiations would then take place before selection takes place.”
— Senior BCB official on the firm‑selection roadmap
Stakeholders have flagged concerns over the tight timeline—arguing that international firms typically need more than two weeks to respond effectively to such tenders.
🔮 What’s Next
Firms present their strategic pitches to the BPL Governing Council.
Final appointment expected in the first week of August.
Franchise list finalized by end-August.
Player draft estimated to take place in early October.
BPL 2025 tournament set for the December–January window.
Stay tuned for updates as the BCB embarks on a revamped journey to elevate the BPL into a world-class league.
