Controversy Erupts Over Bangladeshi Bowler's Inclusion in IPL Team

Controversy Surrounding Mustafizur Rahman's Inclusion in KKR

The inclusion of Bangladeshi fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman in the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) has sparked significant controversy in India. KKR announced his signing for the 2026 season of the Indian Premier League (IPL), which has drawn strong opposition from leaders of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and various religious groups. This uproar comes amid growing concerns regarding the deteriorating India-Bangladesh relations and reports of violence against minorities in the neighboring country. KKR has maintained that the decision was based solely on cricketing merit, yet the controversy continues to escalate.

Rahman's IPL Journey

The situation intensified after KKR acquired Mustafizur for ₹9.20 crores during the IPL auction in December. Since 2016, he has participated in eight IPL seasons, missing only the 2019 and 2020 seasons. Previously, he has played for teams such as Sunrisers Hyderabad, Mumbai Indians, Delhi Capitals, Chennai Super Kings, and Rajasthan Royals. The upcoming season was set to mark his debut with the three-time IPL champions KKR.

India-Bangladesh Relations

Tensions in India-Bangladesh relations have escalated since the ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who fled to India amid anti-government protests last August. A tribunal later sentenced her to death in absentia for her alleged role in violent actions during the protests that resulted in several student deaths. In recent months, Dhaka has summoned Indian High Commissioner Pranay Verma multiple times over various issues, while India has also summoned the Bangladeshi High Commissioner. The diplomatic landscape has shifted significantly with the rise of an interim government led by Mohammad Yunus, moving away from the traditionally pro-India Awami League government. Efforts by Dhaka to strengthen ties with Pakistan have further complicated regional dynamics.

Ongoing Protests

Numerous religious organizations have raised concerns about Rahman's inclusion in the IPL, arguing that the league cannot be separated from regional circumstances. Spiritual leader Devkinandan Thakur condemned the decision to include the Bangladeshi cricketer. BJP leader Sangeet Som echoed similar sentiments, stating that it is unacceptable to include Mustafizur Rahman given the atrocities against Hindus in Bangladesh. He accused Shah Rukh Khan of acting against national interests. Spiritual leader Rambhadrachar also criticized Khan, questioning his public stance and alleging it contradicts national interests.

Calls for Accountability

Umar Ahmed Ilyasi, chief imam of the All India Imam Organization, stated that Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan should apologize to the nation. He questioned whether Khan is unaware of the atrocities against Hindus in Bangladesh, expressing disappointment that KKR chose a Bangladeshi player despite this knowledge. Ilyasi urged Khan to issue a statement condemning the violence against Hindus in Bangladesh.

Maulana Sajid Rashidi, president of the All India Imam Association (AIAA), supported Khan, arguing that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) should have directed KKR to exclude Rahman before the auction. He emphasized that Khan acted within the rules and regulations set by the BCCI.

BCCI's Response

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has instructed KKR to release Mustafizur Rahman from the team for the 2026 IPL season. The BCCI stated that it would allow the franchise to replace the player. Board Secretary Devjeet Saikia confirmed to a news outlet that, in light of recent developments, the BCCI has directed KKR to remove the Bangladeshi player from their roster and will permit them to request a replacement.