In the dynamic world of T20 cricket, every season brings with it new hopes, new challenges, and, often, new faces. The Chattogram Challengers, a prominent franchise in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), have embraced this dynamism with open arms, welcoming the signing of the talented pacer, Mohammad Hasnain, for the upcoming BPL season.
Meet Mohammad Hasnain
At just 23 years old, Mohammad Hasnain has already made a name for himself in the international cricket circuit. With nine ODIs and 27 T20Is for Pakistan under his belt, Hasnain has showcased his ability to deliver breakthroughs when it matters most. His prowess with the ball has earned him a spot in Pakistan’s squad for the 2022 T20 World Cup, further solidifying his status as a budding cricket sensation.
Hasnain’s journey extends far beyond the international arena. He’s a seasoned T20 campaigner, having played 104 matches across various leagues around the world. His remarkable record boasts 124 wickets at an average of 26.05, making him a coveted asset for any T20 franchise.
For the upcoming BPL season, Hasnain will don the Chattogram Challengers’ jersey, marking his debut with the team. His previous exploits include stints in the Pakistan Super League, Big Bash, The Hundred, Caribbean Premier League, and Lanka Premier League. His arrival in Chattogram promises to add firepower to the Challengers’ bowling arsenal.
Chattogram Challengers: The Evolution
Chattogram Challengers are a stalwart of the BPL, a top-tier professional Twenty20 cricket league organized by the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB). As the BPL undergoes restructuring, it’s worth noting that there will be no franchises this time. Instead, the teams have been finalized, and the Challengers from Chattogram have been rebranded, aptly named Chattogram Challengers.
In earlier editions, when franchises ruled the league, the team was known as Chittagong Vikings. Their squad featured some big names, including Mahmudullah Riyad, Imrul Kayes, Rubel Hossain, Nurul Hasan Sohan, and overseas sensations like Christopher Henry Gayle, Avishke Fernando, and Imad Wasim.
The Challengers have now adopted a similar approach to build a formidable squad for the upcoming season. With a mix of local and overseas players, they aim to be strong contenders for the trophy.
A Stellar Coaching Lineup
To guide the Challengers on their journey, they have assembled a coaching team with a wealth of experience. Boss Paul Nixon, a two-time CPL Champion and Head Coach of Leicestershire County Club, leads the charge. Assisting him is Kabir Ali, an ex-England national team fast bowler, and the current Assistant Coach of Royal Challengers Bangalore in the Indian Premier League (IPL).
Local and Foreign Stars
The team’s local lineup includes talented cricketers like Shuvagata Hom, Ziaur Rahman, and Nihaduzzaman. Supporting them are a host of foreign players, including Mohammad Haris, Najibullah Zadran, and the newest addition, Mohammad Hasnain.
Official Sponsorship by Akhtar Group
The journey of a cricket team is often fueled by the support of sponsors, and Chattogram Challengers have found a strong ally in Akhtar Group. This well-established business company has stepped up as the official sponsor of the Chattogram Challengers for the Bangabandhu BPL 2024 season. Their partnership solidifies the Challengers’ standing and sets the stage for an exciting season.
As Chattogram Challengers gear up for another exhilarating season of the BPL, the signing of Mohammad Hasnain and the backing of Akhtar Group represent their commitment to excellence. The evolution from Chittagong Vikings to Chattogram Challengers signifies a team that thrives on adaptability and embraces change. With their stellar coaching team and a blend of local and foreign talent, they are undoubtedly on track to overcome challenges and emerge as formidable contenders in the upcoming BPL season. The stage is set for cricketing fireworks, and the Challengers are ready to rise to the occasion.
