Saqlain’s path to BPL not only paved by tape-tennis

 Uncapped pace-bowling all-rounder Abdul Gaffar Saqlain emerged as one of the biggest surprises of the 12th Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) auction, with Rajshahi Warriors snapping him up for Tk 44 lakh -- far above his Tk 14 lakh base price. The 27-year-old, who bypassed traditional age-level pathways, recently gained attention with a strong showing at the Rising Stars Asia Cup in Qatar. In an interview with The Daily Star's Samsul Arefin Khan, Saqlain discussed his unconventional cricketing journey and development into a multi-format player after starting in tape-tennis cricket. The following are excerpts:

The Daily Star (DS): How excited are you to be picked for the BPL for the first time?
Abdul Gaffar Saqlain (AGS): For any new player, getting a chance in such a big tournament feels amazing.

DS: How did your family react?
AGS: I was outside when the auction started. When I returned, it was already underway. My mother, younger brother, and aunties were watching from home. My brother became very excited when my name came up, and my mother -- who was reciting the Quran after Maghrib as usual -- was very happy when Rajshahi picked me.

DS: After strong performances in the Rising Stars Asia Cup and domestic cricket, how confident were you about getting a BPL team?
AGS: Wherever I play, I just try to give my best. I managed to do that this year -- but ultimately, Allah made it happen.

DS: You didn't come through traditional age-group cricket. What was your journey like?
AGS: I never played U-16, U-17, U-18, or U-19. I started playing in my locality. An elder brother once told me I had talent and should try cricket-ball cricket. At Saidpur, I performed well in a tournament at the Railway Ground, then played a year in Third Division. I spent two years at Gazi Tyres, moved to Kakrail Boys in First Division, then returned to Gazi Tyres. We earned promotion to First Division and became champions to qualify for the Premier League. That same year, I was called up for the National League -- even before my premier league debut. My first premier league wicket was Tamim Iqbal, which I'll never forget.

DS: Many say the HP Programme changed your career. What did that opportunity mean?
AGS: I always wanted to attend a camp, so getting into the HP camp made me extremely happy. HP helps with screening, fitness, mentality, strength, and discipline. I loved the environment and tried to learn as much as possible.

DS: You have a long history in tape-tennis cricket. How did it shape your journey?
AGS: People think I reached the BPL only because of tape-tennis, but that's not true. I played tape-tennis, but also club cricket. I played two years each in Third and Second Division, and seven to eight years in club cricket overall. Before league season, I would stop tape-tennis and prepare for two months. My performances in club cricket earned me promotions throughout my career.

DS: After playing abroad in the Rising Stars Asia Cup and now getting a BPL call-up, what's your vision?
AGS: Like any player, I dream of representing my country. I want to serve Bangladesh for a long time, and I pray that Allah helps me achieve that.