More than 8,500 young cricketers from 350 schools across the country are set to take part in the 11th edition of the ‘Prime Bank National School Cricket 2025–26’. The tournament will begin at the district level on April 10, featuring a total of 651 matches.

A press conference marking the occasion was held on Thursday (April 9) at the media center of the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), followed by the official jersey unveiling ceremony on the field.

Representing Prime Bank PLC, Additional Managing Director Md. Nazim A. Chowdhury and Senior Assistant Vice President & Head of Brand and Communications Syed Raihan Tariq were present at the event.

From the BCB, former captain and national team chief selector Habibul Bashar, Test captain Najmul Hossain Shanto, and national team batter Towhid Hridoy—a product of school cricket—also attended.

Speaking at the event, Nazim A. Chowdhury said, “We have seen around 10 to 12 cricketers who came through school cricket reach the highest level. This is undoubtedly a matter of joy and pride for us. Grassroots cricket is extremely important for the overall progress of the game in the country, and Prime Bank is proud to be associated with this crucial platform.”

He added, “Prime Bank has been sponsoring school cricket for the past 10 years. It is also an emotional commitment for us. We appreciate BCB for successfully organizing this tournament.”

Since its inception in 2015, the Prime Bank National School Cricket has featured 3,507 schools. A total of 76,235 school cricketers have taken part in 6,195 matches held across the country, making it the largest participation base in any level of cricket in Bangladesh.

Additionally, at the end of each season, Prime Bank PLC awards scholarships to top performers selected by BCB age-group selectors. This year, the number of scholarships has been increased from 15 to 25, while the annual amount has been doubled from BDT 60,000 to BDT 120,000 at the request of the BCB.