The ambition in the Rangpur Riders’ camp is palpable as they transition from their recent international success to the rigours of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL). Following their historic title win in the inaugural Global Super League, the franchise has once again entrusted Mickey Arthur, the vastly experienced 57-year-old South African coach, to lead their quest for domestic silverware. While the international trophy has bolstered the team’s confidence, the memory of last season’s sudden and dramatic exit from the BPL remains a significant motivator for Arthur and his squad.
Speaking with characteristic bluntness at the Bashundhara Sports City after a warm-up fixture against Rajshahi Warriors, the former South Africa and Australia head coach reflected on the tactical failings of the previous campaign. Despite a flying start that saw the team steamroll their opposition, the Riders suffered a inexplicable loss of form that derailed their championship hopes just as the trophy came within sight.
Contrasting the Riders’ Recent Form
The following data highlights the stark difference between the franchise’s domestic “cliff-edge” collapse and their subsequent redemption on the international stage.
| Tournament Phase | Match Performance | Outcome/Achievement |
| BPL League Start | 8 Consecutive Victories | Unrivalled Table Toppers |
| BPL Business End | Series of Critical Losses | Eliminated in Top Four |
| Global Super League | Consistent High Performance | Champions |
| 2025 Objective | Consistency in Play-offs | Target: BPL Trophy |
“Ideally, you want to maintain a winning momentum from the first ball of the tournament,” Arthur explained. “Last year was a strange experience; we were untouchable for eight matches, only to find ourselves unable to secure a single victory thereafter. We effectively fell off a precipice. As a management unit, we are determined to hold a post-mortem of those events to ensure we do not fall into the same trap this year.”
Arthur was, however, quick to laud the organisational culture of the Rangpur Riders. He praised the franchise for its structured approach and the seamless communication between the coaching staff and the ownership. “I have a deep affection for this franchise,” Arthur stated. “The people here are exceptional, and from the owners to the administrative staff, it is an absolute pleasure to work within such a well-organised system. I take immense pride in being part of this setup.”
For the Riders, the 2025 season represents more than just another tournament; it is a chance to rectify the mistakes of the past and prove that they can maintain their championship-winning form across both international and domestic platforms.