Payments will be made by the end of BPL's Chattogram phase, says Durbar Rajshahi manager
Rajshahi’s players recently protested against unpaid salaries, which were due on 3 January. Although cheques were issued, they reportedly bounced, prompting players to boycott practice sessions.
Durbar Rajshahi's team manager Mehrab Hossain has expressed confidence that improved financial conditions will reflect positively on the team's performance.
His comments come amid mounting criticism of Rajshahi's subpar showing in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), where they sit sixth on the points table with just two wins from six matches.
Opi, addressing the ongoing payment dispute on Thursday, said, "Once payments are made, I believe everything will fall into place. The players' earnings are vital; they play for their livelihoods. When that source of income is disrupted, it's natural for frustrations to spill over."
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Rajshahi's players recently protested against unpaid salaries, which were due on 3 January. Although cheques were issued, they reportedly bounced, prompting players to boycott practice sessions.
In a further show of discontent, the squad threatened to skip their next match unless payments are resolved by 18 January.
Mehrab explained the reasons behind the delay. "The team owner faced a personal emergency abroad, which caused the hold-up. However, we've been assured that 25% of the payments will be cleared today. This should ease the tension."
The manager emphasised that financial stability is crucial to on-field performance.
"When players' earnings are secured, it boosts their morale. I believe their determination will translate into improved results. This season has had its challenges, but we hope for smoother days ahead."
Adding to the woes, Mehrab disclosed logistical issues, revealing that the team is yet to receive all their kit bags.
"We ordered them from India, but immigration clearance delayed their arrival. Helmets, pads, and gloves are here, but the kit bags are still pending. These issues stem from starting preparations late, unlike other teams that were ready much earlier."
The payment crisis and management inefficiencies have led to widespread ridicule of Durbar Rajshahi, with fans mocking the team as "Durbal Rajshahi" (Weak Rajshahi). Despite the setbacks, Mehrab remains optimistic that the team can bounce back once these problems are resolved.
