BCB President Denies Any Talks on Mustafizur Rahman’s Potential IPL Return Amid Escalating Row
The release of Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman from the Kolkata Knight Riders squad for the IPL 2026 season has sparked an unprecedented diplomatic standoff between the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
Mustafizur, who was acquired by KKR for ₹9.20 crore in last month’s mega auction, was unexpectedly let go, drawing sharp criticism from the BCB. In recent days, social media speculation suggested the BCCI was considering reversing the decision amid the mounting controversy, but BCB president Aminul Islam Bulbul has firmly dismissed those claims.
Since the release was confirmed, tensions between the two boards have intensified on several fronts. Bangladesh has indefinitely banned the broadcast of IPL matches in the country and has refused to send its team to India for the upcoming T20 World Cup.
Reports indicate that senior BCCI officials were not consulted before the release was authorised, with the directive reportedly coming from the highest levels of the Indian cricket administration.
Addressing the rumours of a possible U-turn, Bulbul told Ajker Patrika: “I have not had any written or verbal discussions (with the BCCI) regarding Mustafizur’s (return to the IPL). I have not spoken to anyone from my board about this. There is no truth to this news.”
Tamim Iqbal Calls for Dialogue
Former Bangladesh captain Tamim Iqbal has advised the BCB against making decisions influenced by “public emotion” regarding participation in the T20 World Cup, scheduled to begin on 7 February in India.
Bangladesh has expressed strong reluctance to travel to India for the tournament and has requested that its matches be moved to co-host Sri Lanka, citing security concerns.
“The situation is a bit critical at the moment, and making a sudden comment right now is difficult. But one thing you must keep in mind is that many issues can often be resolved through dialogue if everyone comes together,” Tamim told Cricbuzz.
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“You have to consider where Bangladesh stands in world cricket and what the future of Bangladesh cricket could be and then make decisions accordingly,” he added.
Bangladesh sports ministry adviser Asif Nazrul has adopted a firm stance on the venue issue, emphasising national pride amid growing anti-India sentiment within government circles.
With PTI Inputs