Bangladesh Cricket Board Responds to IPL Controversy Involving Mustafizur Rahman
BCB's Reaction to IPL 2026 Controversy
Aminul Islam from the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has addressed reports suggesting that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) proposed the return of Mustafizur Rahman for IPL 2026 amidst ongoing disputes leading up to the T20 World Cup 2026. Previously, following widespread protests in Bangladesh regarding the selection of Rahman during a time of communal violence against Hindus, the BCCI had requested the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to release the fast bowler from their squad.
BCB's Stance on World Cup Matches
The BCB was reportedly displeased with this decision, leading them to refuse to travel to India for the upcoming World Cup matches next month. They have requested the International Cricket Council (ICC) to relocate their matches to Sri Lanka. This situation has heightened tensions between the two nations and their respective cricket boards. Reports in Bangladeshi media indicated that the BCCI decided to recall Rahman in an effort to ease tensions following the BCB's actions. However, the BCB president has firmly denied any discussions between the two boards regarding this matter.
Clarification from BCB President
According to a report from Ajker newspaper, the BCB president stated, "I have had no written or verbal communication with the BCCI regarding Mustafiz's return to the IPL. I have not discussed this with any board member. There is no truth to this news." Since the BCB reiterated its stance on not playing their T20 World Cup matches in India, there has been no communication between the BCB and the ICC. The mega tournament is set to commence on February 7, with Bangladesh scheduled to play their first three matches in Kolkata and the final match in Mumbai.
Concerns Over Player Safety
Asif Nazrul, a sports advisor for Bangladesh, mentioned earlier this week, "After reading the ICC's letter today, we understand that the ICC does not fully grasp the seriousness of the safety concerns for Bangladeshi players in India. I believe this is not just a matter of safety but also a matter of national humiliation. We view this as a security issue, where the BCCI is telling the Kolkata Knight Riders that they cannot guarantee safety for this player, hence he should be removed from the team. This implicitly acknowledges that playing in India is not very safe."