In the era of internet and television Twenty20 is expected to provide a carnival atmosphere and countries around the world try to attract crowds by hosting many leagues in this format.
Bangladesh also followed the trend as Bangladesh Premier League is becoming the most colourful show in the country’s cricketing arena and every year its shine is ever increasing with the presence of the world’s best players from different countries.
But in the sixth edition, the presence of crowds has so far been a lot lesser than expected. Bangladesh national team player Mushfiqur Rahim, who is also the captain of BPL franchise Chittagong Vikings, thought a heavy schedule and ubiquitous broadcasts may be reasons behind the lack of crowd.
“People can watch cricket matches in mobile phones these days. They can also watch in the TV at home with comfort. When people work away from home they enjoy the game through TV or cell phones,” said Mushfiq after their match on Wednesday.
“If you look back at the Abahani-Mohamedan matches of the past you would see there were many people in the crowd as there was no other way to watch the game. These days, there are so many international games that people think about taking rest in the gap of an international schedule,” added Mushfiq.
Having said all that Mushfiq urged people to come in numbers as he thought this is the best chance of watching world’s best players closely.
“There are so many big players - Smith, Warner, Russell, Pollard, etc. If we do not see them from the stadium where else will you see them?” said Mushfiq.