The Bangladesh government on Monday announced an indefinite bans on the broadcasts and promotion of the Indian Premier League (IPL) following the controversy surrounding the removal of Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman from the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) squad.
KKR had released Mustafizur on Saturday after being instructed by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). No formal reason was given for his exclusion, prompting criticism and concern in Bangladesh.
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The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting said the decision to ban IPL broadcasts was taken “in public interest,” noting that the unexplained removal of Mustafizur had “distressed, shocked and angered the people of Bangladesh.” The statement, signed by assistant secretary Firoz Khan, emphasized that all IPL games and promotions would remain banned until further notice.
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Bangladesh are scheduled to play three T20 World Cup matches in Kolkata next month, part of the February 7–March 8 tournament co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka. Following Mustafizur’s exclusion, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) requested the International Cricket Council (ICC) to move the matches to Sri Lanka.
BCB President Aminul Islam Bulbul said the “dignity and security” of Bangladeshi cricketers were the top priorities. Mustafizur, who was bought by KKR in December for over $1 million, has previously played for other IPL teams. BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia said Kolkata was “advised to release” the player in light of “recent developments.”
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The incident comes amid tense India–Bangladesh relations following a 2024 political uprising in Dhaka that toppled then-PM Sheikh Hasina. ICC recently allowed India to play Champions Trophy matches in the UAE due to strained ties with Pakistan, while Pakistan will play all T20 World Cup matches in Sri Lanka.
The BCB plans to seek a formal explanation from the BCCI regarding Mustafizur’s release. The ICC has not yet commented on the matter.