Bangladesh government has decided to take a tough stance “in public interest” after the release of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) Mustafizur Rahman From their IPL (Indian Premier League) 2026 squad, following the instructions of BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India). The government has banned the telecast of IPL 2026 in the country
A statement from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting said that “It has been noted that no reason has been given for the decision to oust Mustafizur Rahman.” [from the IPL]”And that this development has “created distress among the people of Bangladesh”. The decision has been taken “in the public interest”. The statement was signed by Firoz Khan, assistant secretary of the ministry.
KKR had acquired the services of Mustafizur for Rs 9.20 crore in the IPL 2026 mini-auction, making him the most expensive Bangladeshi player in the history of the league. He was expected to play a key role in the tournament and also guide the young and talented Mathisha Pathirana. However, after the release of Mustafizur, KKR is left with only one foreign fast bowler. However, the BCCI has given them the option to look for a replacement for the left-arm fast bowler.
The ban on broadcasting of IPL matches is not the only consequence of Mustafizur being ignored by KKR. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has also submitted a petition to the ICC, requesting that their T20 World Cup 2026 matches be shifted out of India. He has also reportedly written a letter to BCCI seeking clarification regarding Mustafizur's return.
Bangladesh is in Group C along with West Indies, Italy, England and Nepal. The Tigers are scheduled to play their first three matches at Eden Gardens, Kolkata on February 7, 9 and 14 respectively. Their group-stage campaign will end on February 17 when they face Nepal at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.
Mustafizur, who has won the IPL before, is currently playing for Rangpur Riders in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) 2025-26.
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