Although concerns were raised over the decision to include five foreign players in the playing eleven for teams in the ongoing fifth edition of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), Khulna Titans coach Mahela Jayawardene believes that this will strengthen the sides while also serving as a good challenge for local players to prove their worth.

The legendary Sri Lankan batsman observed that it would create tougher competition and urged patience from the locals for their home grown players to perform.

“I think compared to last year; the quality of overseas players improved. It is always going to be a tough competition,” Jayawardene told reporters after a training session at the National Academy ground in Mirpur yesterday.

The right-hander, who scored 1,493 runs in 55 T20Is, went on to add: “It is just two matches for each team. Give it some time. I think combination wise, it gives you more strength. It is a good challenge for local players to prove themselves. Only the best can play. Bangladesh want 11 players (at the top), not 30."

The 40-year-old, who played for Dhaka Dynamites in the previous edition of the BPL, is undertaking his maiden stint as a coach for the Titans and is enjoying his new role.

“The challenges are different as a player and a coach. I managed to enjoy my stint as a player and am doing the same thing as a coach. I am relaxed and want to see if I can help the younger guys,” he concluded.