Defending champions Rangpur Riders are aiming to retain their crown in the 2025 ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League (GSL), set to begin on July 10 at the Guyana National Stadium in Providence.

The Riders will start their campaign against the home team, Guyana Amazon Warriors, before facing Hobart Hurricanes on July 13.

They are also set to play Dubai Capitals and Central Districts on July 16 and 17, respectively.

Nurul Hasan Sohan, the Riders’ captain, expressed confidence ahead of starting their journey. 

“Nobody gave us a chance last year, yet we became champions. This time the challenge is different, but our belief is stronger,” he said during a jersey unveiling event at Bashundhara Sports City. 

“Winning the GSL was a proud chapter for Bangladesh cricket. We want to build on that. Everyone expects something from Bangladesh cricket, and we’re ready to handle the pressure,” Nurul added.

Due to his commitments with Derbyshire in the English County Championship, South African coach Mickey Arthur will not be present physically.

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However, he will continue to guide the team remotely. Greg Smith will serve as head coach on the ground under Arthur’s supervision.

Team Director Shanian Taneem confirmed that former Bangladesh captain Mohammad Ashraful will once again be part of the coaching setup after playing a key role last season.

Rangpur Riders squad for GSL: Nurul Hasan Sohan (c), Soumya Sarkar, Kyle Mayers, Saif Hassan, Ibrahim Zadran, Iftikhar Ahmed, Mahidul Islam Ankon, Yasir Ali Chowdhury, Akif Javed, Rakibul Hasan, Tabraiz Shamsi, Harmeet Singh, Khawaja Nafey, Kamrul Islam, Khaled Ahmed.