For a long time, there has been a strong demand to host cricket matches in Bangladesh’s divisional cities, especially in regions that have their own franchise teams. One such city is Rajshahi, which recently hosted a series between the Bangladesh Emerging Team and the South Africa Emerging Team. The series drew significant spectator attendance, reigniting interest in organizing more cricket events in Rajshahi.
Speaking to Dhaka Post, Grounds Committee Chairman Mahbub Anam expressed optimism about expanding cricket in the region. He said, “Rajshahi is now well ahead in terms of infrastructure and enthusiasm. Even ‘A’ team or other matches can be hosted here. With further improvement of the facilities and the ground, organizing even bigger matches is possible.”
Yesterday marked the conclusion of the three-match ODI series between Bangladesh and South Africa Emerging Teams in Rajshahi. Under the leadership of Akbar Ali, Bangladesh clinched the series 2-1 with a thrilling win in the decider. In the final match, held at the Shaheed Kamruzzaman Stadium, Bangladesh batted first and posted a total of 225 runs. In reply, South Africa could only manage 191, handing the hosts a 34-run victory.
The series has sparked positive conversations on social media regarding the quality of the stadium and crowd turnout in Rajshahi, a region in northern Bangladesh. Many users have pointed out the long-standing neglect of divisional cities like Rajshahi in terms of hosting major cricket events. Following the success of this series, several voices are now calling for future matches involving the Bangladesh ‘A’ team and even high-profile tournaments like the BPL (Bangladesh Premier League) to be held in Rajshahi.
