Dhaka: Pakistan’s cricketing talent made waves at the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) 2026 players’ auction held in Dhaka on Sunday, with fast bowler Ihsanullah, all-rounder Jahandad Khan, and middle-order batter Haider Ali among the standout signings.

The upcoming BPL season, scheduled from December 26, 2025, to January 23, 2026, will see a major structural change, as the number of participating teams is reduced from seven to five. Dhaka Capitals and Rangpur Riders will continue, while Chattogram Royals, Rajshahi Warriors, and Sylhet Titans join under new ownership. Notably, defending champions Fortune Barishal and Khulna Tigers will not feature this season.

Among the Pakistan recruits, Ihsanullah attracted the highest bid, joining Noakhali Express for USD 28,000 in the Category C foreign players’ slot. The right-arm pacer, who has represented Pakistan in one ODI and four T20Is, looks forward to a fresh start after an uneventful previous stint with Rangpur Riders.

Haider Ali was also picked by Noakhali Express for USD 20,000. The 24-year-old middle-order batter brings solid international experience, having played 37 matches for Pakistan and 13 BPL games, scoring 213 runs with a top score of 48 not out.

Meanwhile, Jahandad Khan, who debuted in T20Is against Australia last November and has played eight internationals since, will represent Rajshahi Warriors, also for USD 20,000.

The latest auction boosts the number of Pakistani players in this year’s BPL to nine. Dhaka Capitals signed Usman Khan, while Chattogram Royals secured Abrar Ahmed. Sylhet Titans brought in Saim Ayub and seasoned pacer Mohammad Amir. Rangpur Riders acquired young wicketkeeper-batter Khawaja Nafay, and Rajshahi Warriors added top-order batter Sahibzada Farhan to their roster.

With a strong contingent of Pakistani talent, this year’s BPL promises thrilling cricket action and high-octane performances.