After a training session at the MA Aziz Stadium in Chattogram yesterday, most of the Dhaka Capitals cricketers had exited the ground, but not Sabbir Rahman. Sabbir, who remains a fan favourite despite not playing for Bangladesh since 2022, stayed back to work on his power hitting – something he has shown glimpses of in the ongoing Bangladesh Premier League (BPL). In an interview with The Daily Star's Abdullah Al Mehdi, Sabbir spoke about the Dhaka Capitals franchise, the state of domestic cricket in Rajshahi and an on-field incident involving him and Tamim Iqbal. Here are the excerpts:

The Daily Star (DS): Your team Dhaka Capitals are having a rough campaign with just one win in eight games. But on a personal note, how has the experience been for you so far with the Dhaka franchise?

Sabbir Rahman (SR): Everything has been really well organised and I don't think anyone has any complaints. We are trying to win but unfortunately it hasn't happened for us. But I feel respected here and I feel proud to represent them. There have been no complaints regarding payments either. Fifty percent payment is done and we are regularly getting our daily allowances.

DS: You were one of the first power hitters from Bangladesh, how do you rate yourself as a power hitter now?

SR: When I started playing, Aftab Ahmed was there and he showed me how to do it. Junaid Siddique was there too. In the beginning, I learnt by watching and following them. I also try to utilise my strength. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't.

DS: How important was it to score that 82 off 33 deliveries against Chittagong Kings?

SR: I felt that it could be my last opportunity. I took it as a do-or-die match and I like taking that challenge. I was fortunate to pass that challenge.

DS: You were not selected in the Rajshahi squad in last year's NCL. How do you feel about the state of cricket in Rajshahi right now?

SR: There are some people who are trying to ruin Rajshahi cricket. I hope the BCB will find them. In the past, Rajshahi players dominated in the domestic circuit and played for the national team. It doesn't happen now because local tournaments are not taking place. Obviously, there are people who don't want good things for others and bring bad things into the game.

DS: Fans at the venue hurled abuse at Liton Das recently in Chattogram. What are your thoughts on that?

SR: It's a franchise tournament, so some harsh words are expected. Obviously, Barishal fans would say the Dhaka players are bhua [bad] and our supporters would say that they are bad. It's nothing personal. I hope Liton does not think too much about it. For us, it doesn't matter who is saying what. It's important that we perform on the field.

DS: There was an incident between you and Tamim Iqbal during a match. Can you shed some light on it?

SR: Actually, I was pretty far away and couldn't hear what Tamim bhai was saying. I heard it later. But I feel he is my senior and a legendary player. We have a lot to learn from him and we learn every day. It happened in the heat of the moment. I obviously didn't take it personally and I hope Tamim bhai did not say it seriously.