Amid the BCCI's directive to exclude fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman from the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) squad, Bangladesh on January 5 (Monday) issued a diktat prohibiting the telecast and broadcast of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 across the country until further notice.
Mustafizur was picked up by KKR for Rs 9.20 crore at the IPL auction that took place in December 2025.
What the order states
In the order posted on X, the Bangladesh government stated, "In view of the subject, it is being informed that a directive from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has come to light regarding the exclusion of Bangladeshi star player Mr Mustafizur Rahman from the Kolkata Knight Riders team for the Indian Premier League (IPL) cricket tournament, scheduled to be held from 26 March 2026."
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Adding that the Indian Cricket Board did not provide any rational reason behind the move, Bangladesh said that the decision had "pained, saddened and aggrieved its people".
"Under these circumstances, until further notice, a request is made as per instructions to stop the broadcast/telecast of all matches and programmes of the Indian Premier League (IPL). This order is issued with the approval of the proper authority and in the public interest," the statement said.
Bangladesh Cricket Board writes to ICC
Amid the fallout, the Bangladesh Cricket Board has reportedly written to the International Cricket Council (ICC), urging them to relocate its T20 World Cup matches to Sri Lanka from India. According to a Hindustan Times report, the ICC is planning new schedules for Bangladesh Group C matches in Sri Lanka.
Rahman speaks
After being dropped from KKR, Mustafizur Rahman didn't have much to say. "If they release me, there’s nothing much I can do," said Mustafizur Rahman as he issued a first reaction while speaking to BDCrictime.
Also Read | What's next after Mustafizur’s exclusion sparks an uncomfortable IPL 2026 debate?
The row
A political row erupted in India following Rahman's signing amid the strained relations and violence in the neighbouring country. After facing intense criticism, KKR on January 3 released the left-arm pacer from its squad.
The development was confirmed by BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia who stated that the board had communicated the decision to KKR.
"Due to the recent developments which is going on all across, BCCI has instructed the franchise KKR to release one of their players Mustafizur Rahman of Bangladesh from their squad and BCCI has also said that if they ask for any replacement, BCCI is going to allow that replacement," Devaijit Saikia told ANI.
