A cricketing fallout turns into a diplomatic and broadcasting crisis as Bangladesh reacts strongly to Mustafizur Rahman’s controversial IPL exit.
The controversy surrounding the removal of Bangladeshi fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman from the Kolkata Knight Riders has escalated into a major political and sporting issue, with the Bangladesh government ordering an indefinite ban on the broadcast and promotion of the Indian Premier League.
In an official statement issued on January 5, authorities confirmed that all IPL-related broadcasts, promotions, and event coverage have been suspended with immediate effect and will remain so until further notice. The statement said the decision was taken in the public interest and approved by the competent authority.
The move follows the IPL decision to release Mustafizur from the Kolkata Knight Riders squad ahead of the upcoming season. Bangladeshi authorities said the release was communicated as an instruction from the Board of Control for Cricket in India and described it as having “no rational basis”.
“There is no rational basis for this decision of the Board of Control for Cricket in India and this decision has left the people of Bangladesh worried, shocked and angry,” the government order said. It added that the growing public outrage left the government with no option but to suspend all IPL-related broadcasts and promotions across the country.
“A request has been made to stop the promotion/broadcasting of all games and events of the Indian Premier League until further orders,” the statement added, noting that the impact of the decision extends beyond broadcasting limits.
The Bangladesh Cricket Board has also decided not to send its national team to India for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, citing security concerns and government advice. The decision followed an emergency meeting after Mustafizur’s sudden exit from the IPL.
After a detailed review, the Board unanimously decided not to travel to India for the tournament scheduled to begin on February 7.
“If they cannot provide security to one of our players, how can they ensure the security of our entire team? That is why we will not travel to India to play,” Cricket Director Khalid Masood Pilot said.
The International Cricket Council is expected to intervene, with Bangladesh currently scheduled to play all four league matches in India.
