In a dramatic escalation of a cricketing controversy, the Bangladesh government has imposed an indefinite ban on the telecast and promotion of the Indian Premier League (IPL). The decision follows widespread anger over the removal of star fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman from the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) squad ahead of the upcoming season.
An official government order issued on January 5 confirmed that all IPL-related broadcasts, promotional content, and event coverage have been suspended across Bangladesh with immediate effect. The order stated that the move was taken “in the public interest” and had received approval from the appropriate authorities, with the ban to remain in force until further notice.
According to Bangladeshi officials, Mustafizur’s release was communicated as a directive from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and was described as lacking any “logical reason.” The government order said the decision had “distressed, shocked, and angered” the people of Bangladesh, reflecting the strong public and political backlash over the issue.
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The fallout has extended beyond broadcasting restrictions. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has decided not to send its national team to India for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, citing security concerns and government advice. The decision was taken after emergency meetings of the BCB, following Mustafizur’s abrupt exit from the IPL.
In an official statement, the BCB said it had reviewed recent developments and expressed deep concern over the safety and security of the Bangladesh contingent in India. BCB director Khaled Mashud Pilot questioned India’s ability to ensure player safety, stating that if one player could not be protected, the security of the entire team was in doubt.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) is now expected to intervene, as Bangladesh is scheduled to play all its league matches in India under the existing tournament plan. The unfolding dispute has added a diplomatic and sporting dimension to the controversy, with implications for regional cricketing ties and international tournament scheduling.
Also Read: KKR Releases Mustafizur Rahman Following BCCI Directive Amid Controversy