Wikipedia - Noakhali Express

Noakhali Express (Bengali: নোয়াখালী এক্সপ্রেস) is a professional franchise Twenty20 cricket team based in Noakhali, Bangladesh. The team is a newly added franchise set to compete in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), the country's premier domestic T20 competition, starting from the upcoming 2026 edition.

The team is the first franchise representing the Noakhali region in the history of the BPL.

History

Formation and ownership

The franchise was officially introduced by the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) and the BPL Governing Council in November 2025 as part of an expansion plan to increase the league from five to six teams.

The ownership rights for the Noakhali franchise were acquired by the transportation company, Desh Travels, who secured a five-year agreement.

2026 Bangladesh Premier League season

The Noakhali Express team is scheduled to make its debut in the 2026 BPL season, which is slated to begin on 26 December 2025. The squad was finalised at the players' auction, which returns to the BPL after a 12-year hiatus, on 30 November 2025 in Dhaka.

The Bangladesh cricket team’s nickname "Noakhali Express" is a tribute to the region of Noakhali, known for its rich cultural heritage and passionate cricket fans. This moniker symbolizes the team's swift, powerful, and relentless style of play, much like a high-speed train racing through the cricketing landscape. The "Noakhali Express" embodies Bangladesh's growing confidence and determination on the international stage, showcasing their ability to deliver rapid, impactful performances that keep opponents on their toes. With a blend of talented young players and experienced veterans, the team continues to strive for excellence, aiming to make their mark with speed, agility, and resilience—truly living up to the spirit of the "Noakhali Express."