Perfect weather for NCL

National selector Habibul Bashar hopes that the National Cricket League (NCL), the country's first first-class cricket competition which is set to resume on December 20, takes place in 'proper conditions.'

After a two-month break, the NCL will resume without the presence of the national players, who are now in Sydney preparing for their tour of New Zealand.

According to Bashar the quality of the tournament or the amount of importance that it receives shouldn't fluctuate with regards to the absence or presence of the national cricketers. He reckons that this tournament, which is likely to be less attractive without the national stars, should receive the best possible treatment. 

“Many have asked me why we didn't get any new players from the recently concluded Bangladesh Premier League. I think everyone should understand the fact that the BPL is a tournament that gives the players exposure.

“On the other hand, players will come out of the National Cricket League, because it's the base of our cricket,” said Bashar.

The NCL had been postponed after three rounds due to the rains. They had to push the remainder of the league after the BPL.

The postponement of the NCL came at a time when calls of better first-class cricket were being made in Bangladesh.

Even after Bangladesh's historic Test victory against England, Bangladesh Test captain Mushfiqur Rahim advocated for better first-class competition.

“I must say that our first-class cricket's standard has improved a lot. Players are motivated now to do well because they know it's only the competition where they can prove themselves to draw the attention.

“I don't think we are in a position to hold back any tournament for availability of the national players. The absence of the national players virtually creates an opportunity for others to show their mettle,” said Bashar.

“Wickets are much better now but we can further improve in this arena. I will be looking forward to seeing matches being played on sporting wickets and even on grassy wickets as the weather is now fantastic and the pitches have got enough rest,” he continued.

Left-handed batsman Shahriar Nafees also said that lot has changed from arranging the tournament to the attitude of the players. “Everybody is aware of the fact that the performance of domestic cricket is now highlighted. It may not get enough attention to print and electronic media in the country but in my personal experience I know people follow it very much,” said Nafees.

“From experience I now know that one must not think about what is going on in the national team rather one must concentrate on the job he has in his hands. Fahim sir (Nazmul Abedin Fahim) basically injected this in my mentality and interestingly most of the players are very much committed to the National League because it's the only platform for the players to go ahead,” he added.

Nafees's team Barisal Division, until the break, were leading Tier-1 with 23 points while Rajshahi Division, with 33, were on top of Tier-2.