BPL playoffs bolstered by influx of star cricketers from ILT20
What's the story
The Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) has welcomed some high-profile cricketers for its playoff stage.
The likes of James Vince, Tim David, Shimron Hetmyer, Andre Russell, and Jason Holder have just finished their stints in the UAE's International League T20 (ILT20) tournament.
Their arrival comes as a major boost for the BPL, which has been reeling under allegations of corruption and salary payment issues.
Team allocation
ILT20 players join BPL teams for playoffs
Vince, David, and Hetmyer were playing for the Gulf Giants (GG) team in the ILT20 tournament, while Russell and Holder were part of the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders (ADKR).
Upon their arrival in Bangladesh, David, Russell, and Vince joined Rangpur Riders. Hetmyer and Holder, meanwhile, have been signed up by Khulna Tigers.
The new additions are sure to spice up the ongoing BPL playoffs.
Player return
Kyle Mayers returns to Fortune Barishal
Along with the five players, Kyle Mayers is also expected to return to Fortune Barishal following his stint with Abu Dhabi in the ILT20.
Before playing in the ILT20, Mayers had already represented Barishal in five matches.
His return is another big addition to the BPL playoffs, further bolstering the league's player roster.
Reputation boost
BPL's reputation enhanced by arrival of T20 a-listers
The addition of these famous T20 stars is likely to add to the BPL's credibility.
This move highlights the fluidity of the T20 arena, where players can feature in multiple franchise leagues in a single season if their side gets knocked out early.
For example, Vince has featured in Australia's Big Bash League and ILT20 before coming in for the BPL.