Performance matters, not big names: Sohan

Rangpur Riders' captain NurulHasanSohan emphasized the importance of consistent team performance rather than depending on individual big names, as his side prepares for the upcoming 12th edition of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) T20 tournament.

"We are hopeful of a strong showing in the upcoming BPL. While we have big names in the team, what really matters is our performance," Sohan said. "Our main goal is to deliver consistently. We are determined to give our best when it counts the most," he added.

Rangpur Riders have assembled a star-studded squad with one goal in mind: to clinch the title.

Mickey Arthur will continue as head coach for the third consecutive season, with the tournament set to begin on December 26. Arthur is expected to arrive in Bangladesh on December 21, but Rangpur will begin their practice sessions ahead of his arrival. The team is scheduled to practice in Dhaka until December 24 before heading to Sylhet for their BPL matches.

"Rangpur has always built strong teams with the goal of winning the trophy," Sohan added. "What I mean is that our performance on the day of the game is crucial. All teams are strong, and it's going to be a highly competitive tournament."

The franchise has signed foreign players KhawajaNafay and SufianMukim ahead of the auction, and they have also brought in Emilio Gay and Mohammad Akhlaq from the auction. NurulHasanSohan and MustafizurRahman have been secured through direct signing. In addition, Rangpur has added local stars, including Liton Das, TowhidHridoy, NahidRana, RakibulHasan, Aliss Al Islam, NaeemHasan, Kamrul Islam Rabbi, MrittunjoyChowdhury, Iftekhar HossainIfti, Mahmudullah Riyad, Abdul Halim, and MehediHasanSohag through the auction.

Earlier, Former Pakistan fast bowler ShoaibAkhter arrived in Dhaka on Sunday to join Dhaka Capitals as their mentor for the upcoming Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) T20 tournament.

Dhaka management confirmed the news through their social media handle.

"The Rawalpindi Express arrives in the capital.ShoaibAkhtar is here," Dhaka franchise wrote in the official facebook page, posting a video of Akhtar, arguably the fastest fast bowler the world has seen.

He received a warm welcome from the franchise's owner organisation, Remark HB, upon his arrival. His appointment is seen as a major boost for Dhaka Capitals as they prepare for the new season.

Meanwhile, Rajshahi Warriors confirmed the service of the Nepal leg-spinner SandeepLamichhane for the upcoming Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) T20 tournament, beginning from December 26.

"Welcome Himalayan Magic SandeepLamichhane," Rajshahi wrote in their official facebook page to confirm the news. "Nepal, you're not just watching the game, you're part of the fight."

Lamichhanne has been the regular face in domestic T20 tournaments around the world. He also had previous experience of playing for SylhetSixers in the BPL.Earlier Rajshahi secured the service of New Zealand all-rounder James Neesham.