The Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) has been thrust into controversy following reports that Indian sports presenter Ridhima Pathak was removed from the hosting panel of the ongoing tournament. The news sparked speculation of diplomatic tensions affecting sporting engagements between India and Bangladesh, further straining already sensitive cricketing relations. Pathak, however, has clarified that she voluntarily stepped down from her role due to the prevailing political climate, emphasizing her allegiance to her nation.

Tensions escalated earlier this month when the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) reportedly instructed Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to release Bangladeshi pacer Mustafizur Rahman from their squad. In response, the Bangladesh government imposed a nationwide ban on broadcasting the Indian Premier League (IPL) and requested that the upcoming T20 World Cup matches be relocated to Sri Lanka, citing security and political concerns.

Amid widespread media reports in Bangladesh suggesting that Pathak had been ousted from the BPL, the presenter moved quickly to address the rumors. In a statement shared on social media, she asserted that the decision to withdraw from the league was personal and made with full consideration of her country’s interests. She also underscored her commitment to the integrity of cricket, stating that her principles and dedication to the sport remain unchanged.

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Pathak further expressed gratitude to her supporters and emphasized the need for transparency in cricket. “Cricket deserves truth. Period,” she wrote, reinforcing her stance that her exit was voluntary and rooted in professional integrity. Her clarification has largely quelled speculation that she was removed under external pressures, while keeping focus on the larger India-Bangladesh sporting dispute.

The BPL controversy occurs alongside broader tensions between the two cricket boards. The International Cricket Council (ICC) has reportedly instructed Bangladesh to participate in T20 World Cup matches in India or risk forfeiture. The situation has created uncertainty not only for cricket players but also for Bangladeshi athletes participating in other sporting leagues in India, reflecting the wider repercussions of the ongoing diplomatic and cricketing friction.

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