Will Bangladesh Players Join IPL? BCCI Remains Silent Amid Controversy

The BCCI has refrained from commenting on the participation of Bangladeshi players in the IPL, particularly following the signing of Mustafizur Rahman by Kolkata Knight Riders for a record fee. This decision comes amid rising tensions due to reports of violence against religious minorities in Bangladesh. While the BCCI insists there has been no government directive against Bangladeshi players, the situation has sparked debate among political leaders and sports enthusiasts alike. The controversy highlights the intersection of sports and politics, raising questions about the implications of such signings in the current climate.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 2, 2026, 14:44 IST

BCCI's Stance on Bangladeshi Players in IPL

New Delhi: On Thursday, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) chose not to address the involvement of Bangladeshi players in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Sources indicated that there has been no official communication from the government regarding this issue.

The focus has been on the recent auction where Bangladeshi fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman was signed, with BCCI representatives confirming that no government directive has been issued to bar Bangladeshi players from participating in the league.

Rahman made headlines by becoming the highest-paid Bangladeshi player after the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) acquired him for ₹9.20 crore during last month's mini-auction. His signing has raised eyebrows due to reports of violence against religious minorities in Bangladesh, leading to questions about his involvement in IPL 2026.

A BCCI source commented, "We should avoid delving into this matter. It is beyond our control. We have not received any instructions from the government to stop Bangladeshi players from participating in the IPL… We cannot provide further comments at this time."

Since his IPL debut with Sunrisers Hyderabad in 2016, Rahman has taken 65 wickets in 60 matches, maintaining an economy rate of 8.13. He has played for several franchises, including Mumbai Indians (2018), Rajasthan Royals (2021), Delhi Capitals (2022–23), and Chennai Super Kings (2024), before being released after the team did not qualify for the playoffs. He returned to Delhi Capitals last season as a replacement for injured Australian player Jake Fraser-McGurk.

Previously, spiritual leader Devkinandan Thakur criticized KKR and its co-owner, Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan, for signing Rahman, claiming that the inclusion of a Bangladeshi player was hurtful to Hindus and followers of Sanatan Dharma amidst reports of atrocities against Hindus in Bangladesh.

These comments have elicited varied responses from political figures across the spectrum, with many asserting that sports should remain distinct from political and diplomatic matters.