Dhaka, December 30, 2025: The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) on Tuesday called off all Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) matches scheduled for December 30 following the death of former prime minister Begum Khaleda Zia earlier in the day.
The decision was announced just hours before the scheduled match between Sylhet Titans and Chattogram Royals at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium.
Khaleda Zia, Bangladesh’s first female prime minister, served two terms in office from 1991 to 1996 and from 2001 to 2006. Her passing prompted nationwide mourning, leading sporting authorities to suspend scheduled activities as a mark of respect.
In a statement, the BCB expressed deep sorrow over her death and paid tribute to her contributions to the development of cricket in the country. “The BCB recalls with gratitude her constant blessings and good wishes for the progress of cricket in this country,” the statement said.
The board noted that during her tenure as prime minister, Khaleda Zia extended strong support for the growth of cricket, contributing to improvements in infrastructure and the overall development of the sport nationwide. “Her vision and encouragement helped pave the way for many of the advancements the game enjoys today,” it added.
“In respect of the nation’s mourning and in honour of Begum Khaleda Zia’s legacy, the BCB announces that today’s scheduled Bangladesh Premier League matches have been cancelled and will be rescheduled. Further details on the revised fixtures will be communicated in due course,” the statement concluded.
The BPL 2025–26 season began on December 26 with double-header matches scheduled on most days. With built-in gaps between fixtures, officials believe the postponement is unlikely to disrupt the tournament schedule.
