The Big Bash didn’t happen because it wasn’t in my destiny: Rishad Hossain

Rishad Hossain, the rising Bangladeshi leg-spinner, is taking his missed opportunity to play in Australia's Big Bash League (BBL) in stride.

"The Big Bash didn't happen because it wasn't in my destiny," Rishad said in the post-match press conference after his team Fortune Barishal defeated Sylhet Strikers by seven wickets in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) on Tuesday.

"I'm focused on the BPL now, and Insha'Allah, the opportunity will come again."

Rishad made history as the first Bangladeshi cricketer to be picked in the BBL draft, a testament to his rising stature and consistent performances.

However, conflicting schedules with the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) and a lack of necessary clearance from the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) kept him from making the trip to Australia.

Despite the setback, Rishad remains fully committed to the BPL, where he has been in excellent form.

His mature attitude has silenced critics and reassured fans that his international T20 ambitions remain on track.

The BBL, widely regarded as one of the world's premier T20 leagues, has hosted Bangladeshi players before, but only through direct contracts, as seen with Shakib Al Hasan.

Rishad's inclusion in the draft was a milestone, signalling strong prospects of making the playing XI.

However, his domestic commitments with Fortune Barishal in the BPL took precedence, and to add to the disappointment, he wasn't included in the XI for Barishal's opening two games.

The situation sparked debate within Bangladesh's cricket community, with many lamenting the lost opportunity for Rishad to gain international exposure.

However, the young spinner's focus and optimism remain unwavering. "I work with what's in front of me. For now, it's about doing my best in the BPL," he added.