Chattogram look the side to fear

Chattogram Royals appear to have put their pre-tournament turmoil behind them and are fast emerging as the team to beat in the ongoing Bangladesh Premier League (BPL). Their performances on the field suggest a side growing in confidence and cohesion despite a chaotic build-up to the tournament.

On Sunday, Chattogram registered their third win in four matches with a dominant nine-wicket victory over Sylhet Titans, a result that lifted them to the top of the points table. The rise has been remarkable considering the uncertainty surrounding the franchise just days before the competition began.

On the eve of the BPL, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) was forced to take over the Chattogram franchise after owners Triangle Services Limited withdrew due to financial issues. The situation was further complicated by the absence of foreign players in Bangladesh before their opening match against Noakhali Express, while the coaching setup underwent multiple changes.

Following the takeover, the BCB moved quickly to stabilise the side, appointing former Bangladesh captain Habibul Bashar as team director. Mizanur Rahman Babul was named head coach, with Nafees Iqbal taking charge as team manager. Chattogram also managed to recruit overseas players Mirza Tahir Baig and Masood Gurbaz to meet the league's foreign-player requirements.

Despite the uncertainty, Chattogram began their campaign emphatically with a 65-run win over Noakhali Express. They stumbled in their second match, however, as tournament favourites Rangpur Riders bowled them out for just 102 before cruising to a seven-wicket victory.

The port-city franchise -- now often referred to as the 'committee's team' due to BCB's involvement -- responded strongly. Convincing 10-wicket and nine-wicket wins over Dhaka Capitals and Sylhet Titans respectively propelled them to the top of the standings.

On paper, Chattogram looked a side to be wary of after the players' auction, having secured several in-form national and domestic players such as Mahedi Hasan, Shoriful Islam, Mohammad Naim, Tanvir Islam, Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Abu Hider Rony and Mukidul Islam Mugdho.

Although they lack marquee overseas stars, the late inclusions have delivered. Adam Rossington has struck back-to-back fifties, Aamer Jamal has been economical with the ball, while openers Naim and Rossington have comfortably completed chases in the matches he has played.

Mohammad Naim, the most expensive signing of BPL 12, has also justified his price tag with consecutive half-centuries. Speaking after the win over Sylhet, Naim emphasised team unity and focus rather than results.

"Our bonding is very good right now. We just need to continue this," he said, adding that he remains focused on maintaining his preparation rather than dwelling on table positions.

If Chattogram continue on this trajectory, a deep run in the tournament would be no surprise.