Big setback for Sri Lanka ahead of T20 World Cup, Kusal Mendis ruled out of BPL

Noakhali Express have suffered a major setback right before the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) 2025-2026 got underway. The franchise, appearing in the tournament for the first time, will have to navigate its inaugural season without star overseas signing Kusal Mendis. Sri Lankan wicketkeeper-batter has been officially ruled out of the entire competition due to health concerns,.

Kusal Mendis ruled out of BPL 2025-26

The timing of this withdrawal is particularly devastating for a team still trying to establish its identity. Noakhali Express had secured Mendis through a direct contract outside the player auction, intending for him to be the cornerstone of their batting lineup. As a veteran of the international circuit, he was expected to provide a crucial blend of top-order firepower and stabilizing experience to help the franchise find its footing in the high-pressure environment of the BPL.

The loss of such a battle-hardened professional—confirmed only this past Tuesday—has forced the team management into an urgent, last-minute tactical shift. Mendis is widely regarded as an asset in T20 leagues for his ability to pace an innings and accelerate when necessary. Without his pedigree at the top of the order, the Express must now scramble to find a suitable replacement who can match the stability he promised to bring to their debut campaign.

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Noakhali Express still a strong side despite Mendis' ouster

While the loss of Kusal Mendis is a significant blow, Noakhali Express are far from a weakened side. The franchise entered the season with a deep batting roster, ensuring they have plenty of high-quality options to fill the void. Caribbean powerhouse Johnson Charles provides the raw strength needed for the powerplay, while Afghanistan’s rising star Sediqullah Atal brings a fearless, aggressive approach to the top of the order.

The local contingent further strengthens the squad, offering crucial knowledge of home conditions. With seasoned internationals like Soumya Sarkar alongside promising talents such as Habibur Rahman Sohan and Shahadat Hossain Dipu, the team possesses enough depth to stay competitive. While these players offer a different dynamic than Mendis, their collective experience means the team doesn't need to hit the panic button just yet.

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The real challenge lies in the quick turnaround, as Noakhali Express must face the Chattogram Challengers this Friday, December 26, to kick off their campaign. Despite the absence of their Sri Lankan star, the roster remains well-balanced. With the tactical maturity of Mohammad Nabi, the mystery spin of Zahir Khan, and the raw pace of Ihsanullah and Hasan Mahmud, the debutants still boast a formidable lineup capable of taking on any opponent.

Ultimately, every new franchise faces a defining hurdle early in its existence. For Noakhali Express, navigating the sudden loss of a marquee player right before the opening bell serves as that first major test. How the team adapts to this adversity will likely set the tone for their resilience and performance throughout the rest of the BPL season.