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BCCI Silent on Bangladesh Players' IPL Future Amid Political Controversy

The BCCI has declined to comment on the participation of Bangladesh players in the IPL, stating it has received no government directive on the matter. This follows controversy over Kolkata Knight Riders' signing of Mustafizur Rahman for ₹9.20 crore amid reports of violence against minorities in Bangladesh. Spiritual guru Devkinandan Thakur criticized the signing, arguing it hurt Hindu sentiments, while political leaders emphasized keeping sports separate from diplomacy. The debate highlights the intersection of sports, politics, and international relations in cricket's premier league.

Key Points: BCCI Silent on Bangladesh Players in IPL Amid Political Row

  • BCCI awaits government directive
  • Mustafizur Rahman's record IPL deal
  • Political and religious tensions spark debate
  • Sports vs. politics divide
2 min read

'Let's not get into this': BCCI maintains silence on Bangladesh players' IPL participation

BCCI declines comment on Bangladesh players' IPL participation, citing no government directive amid controversy over Mustafizur Rahman's signing.

'Let's not get into this': BCCI maintains silence on Bangladesh players' IPL participation
"Let's not get into this. It is not in our hands. – BCCI source"

New Delhi, Jan 2

The BCCI on Thursday declined to comment on the participation of Bangladesh players in the Indian Premier League, with sources saying that no communication has been received from the government on the matter.

Amid discussion over the signing of Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman at last month's IPL auction, BCCI sources reiterated that there has been no directive from the government to prevent Bangladeshi players from taking part in the league.

Rahman became the most expensive Bangladeshi player ever after Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) secured his services for Rs 9.20 crore at the mini-auction held last month. The signing sparked debate following reports of violent incidents against religious minorities in Bangladesh, with some questioning the pacer's participation in IPL 2026.

Reacting to the issue, a BCCI source told IANS, "Let's not get into this. It is not in our hands. We have not received any communication from the government directing us to prevent Bangladesh players from participating in the IPL... Can't comment much as of now."

Rahman, who has taken 65 wickets in 60 IPL matches at an economy rate of 8.13, made his IPL debut with Sunrisers Hyderabad in 2016. He later represented Mumbai Indians (2018), Rajasthan Royals (2021), Delhi Capitals (2022-23), and Chennai Super Kings (2024), before being released after the franchise failed to qualify for the playoffs. He returned to Delhi Capitals last season as an injury replacement for Australia batter Jake Fraser-McGurk.

Earlier, spiritual guru Devkinandan Thakur criticised KKR and its co-owner, Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan, over Rahman's signing, stating that Hindus and followers of Sanatan Dharma were hurt by the inclusion of a Bangladeshi player amid reports of atrocities against Hindus in the neighbouring country.

The remarks have drawn mixed reactions from political leaders across parties, with many emphasising that sports should remain separate from political and diplomatic issues.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
I understand the BCCI's position. They can't act without a government directive. It's a tricky diplomatic situation, but banning a player based on nationality sets a bad precedent for international sport.
P
Priyanka N
It's a very sensitive issue. While my heart aches for our brothers and sisters facing difficulties, punishing an individual sportsperson for his government's actions feels wrong. The IPL is about cricket, not geopolitics.
A
Aman W
Respectfully, I disagree with the guru's comments. Shah Rukh Khan and KKR are running a cricket team, not the foreign ministry. This kind of pressure on athletes is unfair. Let the man play.
V
Vikram M
The BCCI is right to stay silent and wait for official word. 9.20 crore is a huge amount and shows his value as a player. Fizz has always played with passion in the IPL. We should welcome talent.
K
Kriti O
It's a complex situation. Sports can be a bridge between people. Maybe his presence can help highlight issues in a positive way? Just thinking out loud. Hope for peace and good cricket.

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