Mohammad Nabi Criticizes Journalist Over IPL Controversy During BPL

In a recent press conference during the Bangladesh Premier League, former Afghanistan captain Mohammad Nabi confronted a journalist over a question regarding Mustafizur Rahman's exclusion from the Kolkata Knight Riders for IPL 2026. Nabi's strong reaction highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding the situation, especially as the Bangladesh Cricket Board has raised safety concerns and requested the ICC to relocate their matches in the upcoming T20 World Cup. This incident has sparked discussions about the intersection of sports and politics, as well as the implications for players involved.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 13, 2026, 12:17 IST

Nabi's Outburst at BPL Press Conference

During a media interaction at the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), former Afghanistan captain Mohammad Nabi expressed his displeasure towards a journalist's question. Nabi was visibly upset and reprimanded the reporter for asking what he deemed an absurd question. The journalist sought Nabi's opinion on the ongoing controversy regarding the exclusion of Bangladesh's left-arm fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman from the Kolkata Knight Riders ahead of the upcoming IPL season.

Political Tensions Surrounding Mustafizur's IPL Participation

Amid rising tensions with Bangladesh, public outrage erupted over Mustafizur's potential participation in IPL 2026, prompting the BCCI to instruct KKR to remove the cricketer from their squad. Nabi responded, stating, 'What does this have to do with me? I have no connection with Mustafizur. What is my role in politics? I know he is a good bowler, but the way you are questioning me has nothing to do with me.'

BCB's Strong Reaction to Mustafizur's Exclusion

Following Mustafizur's exclusion from the IPL, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) reacted strongly, citing safety concerns. They wrote to the International Cricket Council (ICC), requesting that their matches in the 2026 T20 World Cup be relocated from India. Bangladesh is placed in Group C of this prestigious tournament and is scheduled to play three matches in Kolkata against the West Indies, Italy, and England, before heading to Mumbai to face Nepal.

ICC's Findings on Security Risks

In light of the BCB's request, reports have emerged indicating that an independent agency appointed by the ICC found no evidence of security risks for the Bangladesh cricket team in India.