The 12th edition of the BPL is scheduled to begin on December 26, but Abrar will no longer feature in the competition. According to a Geo Super report, the spinner has pulled out, although Chattogram Royals are yet to issue a formal statement, leaving fans and analysts speculating about the circumstances behind the decision.
One possible reason for Abrar’s withdrawal could be his involvement with the Pakistan national team. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) may have already informed him about a potential selection for Pakistan’s upcoming T20I series against Sri Lanka, set to begin on January 7, with matches on January 9 and January 11 in Dambulla. If included in the squad, Abrar may have chosen to prioritize international duties, despite having already received a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the PCB to play in the BPL.
Despite Abrar’s exit, Pakistan players continue to have a strong presence in this year’s BPL. At the players’ auction held on November 30, young fast bowler Ihsanullah, all-rounder Jahandad Khan, and middle-order batter Haider Ali drew significant interest. They will join five other Pakistan cricketers who were signed directly ahead of the auction: Saim Ayub, Mohammad Amir, Usman Khan, Khawaja Nafay, and Sahibzada Farhan.
Abrar Ahmed is not new to the BPL, having previously represented the Comilla Victorians in the 2023 season, where he featured in one match without taking a wicket.
The BPL 2025–26 will kick off on December 26, with Sylhet Titans set to face Rajshahi Warriors at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium.
