Is Rishad set to play in the BBL for a week?

Leg-spinner Rishad Hossain may get the opportunity to play for Hobart Hurricanes in the Big Bash League (BBL) 14, but only for three matches.

Rishad could become the second Bangladeshi cricketer, after Shakib Al Hasan, to feature in the BBL, as he was drafted by Hobart Hurricanes. However, uncertainty surrounds his participation due to conflicting commitments with his Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) franchise, Fortune Barishal, which complicates his chances of joining the BBL.

The timing of both tournaments presents a major obstacle. BBL 14 is scheduled from December 15, 2024, to January 27, 2025, while the BPL runs from December 30, 2024, to February 7, 2025.

Fortune Barishal reportedly prefers Rishad to remain with them throughout the BPL, which could prevent him from participating in one of the world’s most prestigious franchise leagues.

Last week, during his training with Rangpur Riders for the Global Super League, Rishad was asked about his potential involvement in the BBL next month. 

“I don’t know yet. If Allah wills, maybe (I will play),” he said, expressing both hope and uncertainty.

However, Mizanur Rahman, the owner of Fortune Barishal, confirmed on Monday that they have allowed Rishad to play for Hobart, though not for the full season.

Rishad will be permitted to play three matches in the BBL until December 27, after which he will join the Barishal team before their opening match in the BPL on December 30.

“We have granted him an NOC until December 27. This was our decision. He can play in the BBL until December 27, then join our team before our tournament opener,” Mizanur Rahman said on Monday.

Hobart Hurricanes’ first match will be against Melbourne Renegades on December 19, followed by matches against Perth Scorchers and Adelaide Strikers on December 21 and 27, respectively.

According to Mizanur, Rishad had requested permission to play in the match on December 27 before joining the Barishal camp.

“He requested us to play the match on December 27. We allowed him,” he said.

“We informed the board about this a month ago. Nothing has changed,” he concluded.