Chattogram Royals strengthen squad after makeshift start

Criticised for poor preparation and last-minute turmoil, Chattogram Royals eventually pulled out of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) just a day before the tournament began. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) later took charge of the franchise. Although the team managed to play their opening match with a makeshift setup, they have now brought some relief to Chattogram supporters.
Chattogram Royals have signed one local and three overseas players, as announced on the team’s official Facebook page today. Among the new additions is Bangladesh Test team left-handed opener Shadman Islam. He has previously featured in the BPL for Dhaka Dynamites, Chattogram Challengers and Rangpur Rangers, and will now be seen playing for a new franchise.
Alongside Shadman, Chattogram have also included three foreign players in their squad. Pakistan power-hitter Asif Ali will be joined by Aamer Jamal and Hasan Nawaz in the BPL. Due to a shortage of overseas players, Chattogram had to field Mirza Tahir Baig and Masood Gurbaz in their playing XI for the first match.
Team officials are hopeful that the inclusion of the newly signed players will bring balance to the Chattogram Royals squad. After a turbulent start, the team is now aiming to bounce back through improved performances on the field.