From today, the BPL playoffs begin: Who will make it to the final—Rajshahi or Chattogram

After a gripping league stage, the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) 2026 now enters its most exhilarating phase — the play-offs. Today, Tuesday 20 January, the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur will host the opening matches, with four teams still in contention for the coveted title: Rajshahi Warriors, Chattogram Royals, Rangpur Riders, and Sylhet Titans.

The day’s schedule promises high drama as the first qualifier sees the top two teams of the points table, Rajshahi Warriors and Chattogram Royals, face off. The winner will earn a direct berth to the BPL Final 2026, while the losing side retains a second chance through the second qualifier.

BPL 2026 Play-offs: Key Fixtures (20 January)

First Qualifier: Who Will Secure the Direct Final Spot?

Rajshahi Warriors vs Chattogram Royals
Rajshahi and Chattogram, sitting first and second on the points table, clash in a high-stakes encounter. The victorious team will advance straight to the final, while the defeated side still retains a lifeline in the second qualifier.

Rajshahi Warriors
The Warriors arrive in confident mood, bolstered by the inclusion of New Zealand all-rounder James Neesham, who has secured special permission to feature despite international duties. Rajshahi’s strong league performance and balanced squad make them formidable contenders.

Chattogram Royals
The Royals, having lost their last two league matches, face a stern test. The management and coaching staff remain hopeful that seasoned players will rise to the occasion. Unlike Sylhet, no new overseas reinforcements have been added; the team relies on its existing core.

Eliminator: Rangpur Riders vs Sylhet Titans — Knockout Drama

The afternoon fixture features a do-or-die battle.

Rangpur Riders
After a mid-league slump, Rangpur have regained momentum under experienced coach Mickey Arthur. The team arrives with confidence, believing they are just three steps away from the championship, aiming to carry forward their recent winning form.

Sylhet Titans
Sylhet have made a bold statement, flying in England stars Sam Billings and Chris Woakes for the play-offs. Woakes and Billings are expected to spearhead an aggressive approach designed to dismantle Rangpur’s strong bowling attack.

As the play-offs unfold, fans across the nation eagerly await which teams will rise to the occasion, setting the stage for a spectacular BPL Final on 23 January.