Bangladesh’s Football Scene Gears Up for a Wave of Overseas Players

The sound of returning overseas footballers is resonating through Bangladesh’s football community. The Bangladesh Football Federation has taken proactive steps to facilitate this movement, inspiring football enthusiasts across the nation. Currently, Hamza Dewan Chowdhury is playing in the English Premier League, and the number of expatriate footballers expressing interest in representing Bangladesh is increasing.

Among them is Canadian-based footballer Sammit Som, who has recently expressed a strong desire to join the Bangladesh national team. He has already applied for a passport at the Bangladesh consulate in Canada, signaling his earnest intent.

For many years, discussions about Sammit playing for Bangladesh have been ongoing, but he had not made a decision until recently. Following Hamza Dewan Chowdhury’s debut, Sammit publicly announced his interest in representing Bangladesh. The two have engaged in discussions, and Sammit was present yesterday at the Toronto consulate office in Canada, where he spoke with sports journalist Abu Sadat.

During the conversation, Sammit elaborated on his reasons, goals, and the positive reactions from supporters. He said, “It’s exciting. Coming here and seeing everything become a reality is incredible. I hope to get my passport processed and FIFA approval on time so I can play for Bangladesh.” He added, “Bangladesh’s football has improved a lot. Hamza Chowdhury is now playing for them. If he can go, why shouldn’t I? He’s a major player. Besides, I know other expatriate Bangladeshi footballers like Tariq Kazi, Jamal Bhuiyan, Khasem Shah, and Sayeed. That’s also inspired me. I’ve always been waiting and thought I’d get the chance to play at the right time.”