Bangladesh opener Naim Sheikh recently declined an opportunity to play in the Nepal Premier League (NPL), despite receiving an official call-up for the foreign franchise tournament that featured several international star cricketers.
Although he had earlier hinted at the reasons behind his absence, Naim has now explained his decision in detail, citing the priority of domestic cricket and the financial realities involved.
At the time, Bangladesh’s four-day National Cricket League (NCL) was underway, following the NCL T20, in which Naim had already participated. “Considering the busy domestic schedule and the remuneration, I finally decided not to play in the NPL,” he said.
The decision appears to be paying dividends, as Naim is currently in impressive form in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL). On Sunday (January 4), he played a key role in Chattogram Royals’ nine-wicket win over Sylhet Titans.
Batting first after losing the toss, Sylhet struggled early, losing three wickets for just 26 runs. Captain Mehedi Hasan Miraz was dismissed for five, and despite a fighting 44 from Azmatullah Omarzai, the hosts managed only 126 for seven.
Chasing the target, Chattogram Royals made a strong start through Naim Sheikh and Adam Rossington. Naim struck a fluent 52 off 37 balls before being dismissed, while Rossington remained unbeaten on 73 to seal a comfortable victory.
At the post-match press conference, Naim noted that Rossington’s experience in the Nepal Premier League helped him adapt quickly to conditions in Bangladesh.
“I was talking to him about the wicket conditions in Nepal,” Naim said. “I was also supposed to play there, but I couldn’t because of the NCL. He told me the wickets were quite similar. Scoring runs there gave him confidence, and he has carried that form into the BPL. Playing in Nepal has definitely helped him.”
For now, Naim remains focused on domestic cricket and consistent performances in the BPL as he looks to strengthen his prospects at the national level.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
