Bangladesh Government Imposes Ban on IPL Broadcasts Following Mustafizur Rahman's Exit
The Bangladesh government has taken a significant step by imposing an indefinite ban on IPL broadcasts following the release of fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman from the Kolkata Knight Riders. This decision has sparked outrage among fans, as the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting announced that all IPL-related broadcasts will be suspended until further notice. The move comes after the BCCI's directive to release Rahman, which has left many in Bangladesh feeling hurt and disappointed. As the IPL season approaches, the implications of this ban could have lasting effects on cricket viewership in the country.
Jan 5, 2026, 14:19 IST
Bangladesh's Ban on IPL Broadcasts
In light of Mustafizur Rahman's removal from the team, the Bangladesh government has announced an indefinite ban on the broadcasting and promotion of the Indian Premier League (IPL). This decision was confirmed by Bangladeshi officials in a statement released on January 5. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting of Bangladesh stated that all broadcasts and programs related to the IPL are suspended with immediate effect until further notice.
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This decision comes after the Kolkata Knight Riders released Bangladeshi fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman from the team at the direction of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), considering the ongoing events in Bangladesh. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting expressed that the BCCI's decision to exclude Rahman from the Kolkata Knight Riders for the upcoming IPL starting on March 26 has left the people of Bangladesh deeply hurt, saddened, and outraged. Consequently, the ministry has announced that all IPL matches and related broadcasts will be suspended in Bangladesh until further notice.
Meanwhile, the 2024 IPL champions, Kolkata Knight Riders, confirmed on Saturday, January 3, that they had released Mustafizur Rahman from the team following BCCI's instructions. KKR stated that they acknowledge the directive from the BCCI/IPL to release Rahman ahead of the upcoming IPL season. This decision was made after proper procedures and consultations as per the directives of the Board of Control for Cricket in India.
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BCCI Secretary Devjit Saikia confirmed that the board had instructed KKR to release Mustafizur Rahman from the team. The BCCI has advised the Kolkata Knight Riders to free Rahman, and they may request a replacement if necessary.