BCB's 'Bowler Hunt' to find pacers and spinners—how to apply?

The initiative to discover new talent in Bangladesh cricket is making a comeback. After a long hiatus, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) and Robi are jointly organizing the ‘Robi Bowler Hunt.’ This time, the search will extend beyond just pacers to include talented spinners from across the country. Additionally, female cricketers will have the opportunity to participate alongside their male counterparts.

When does it start?

The nationwide bowler selection process is set to begin on September 27, 2026. The hunt will be held at eight venues across the country, including two in Dhaka. Trials will not take place at all venues on the same day; instead, the selection process will be conducted on different days according to a set schedule.

At each venue, a technical team comprising BCB coaches, selectors, and experienced cricketers will oversee operations. Modern technology, including speed guns, will be utilized to assess the bowlers' capabilities.

Who can participate?

Promising pacers and spinners from any part of the country will have the chance to showcase their skills during this talent search. Notably, female cricketers are being specifically included this time around.

However, the BCB has yet to officially release comprehensive guidelines regarding age limits, eligibility criteria, venue-specific trial schedules, and detailed registration procedures. Full details are expected to be announced at the inaugural ceremony on September 15.

How to apply?

This is the crucial point: specific details regarding the application process—such as the SMS number, online registration link, or application form for the 2026 Bowler Hunt—have not yet been reliably published. Therefore, it would be incorrect to assume that the methods used in the 2016 Bowler Hunt will apply this time.

During the 2016 edition, participants could register by sending an SMS with the text ‘FAST’ to 21213 from a Robi number or by registering online. However, those were the rules for the previous event; the procedure for 2026 has not yet been confirmed.

Cricket-related information and notices are published on the BCB's official website. Instructions regarding the application process may be made available there once the program officially launches. Players who emerged from 'Bowler Hunt' initiatives

Bangladesh cricket has a successful track record with such initiatives. Cricketers like Rubel Hossain, Ebadot Hossain, Khaled Ahmed, and Rishad Hossain emerged from previous 'Bowler Hunt' programs. Rubel Hossain’s rise from the nationwide pacer search in 2007 stands out as a major success story.

This time, the BCB plans not only to scout talent but also to provide the selected bowlers with modern training and long-term development support. The goal is to produce quality bowlers for the national team and its talent pipeline.

Note: Once the official application link or contact number is released, I can locate the details and write a separate, updated article explaining the step-by-step application process.