BCCI defies pressure, opens IPL door for Mustafizur

Bangla Press Desk: The Board of Control for Cricket in India has categorically stated that Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman is free to play in the Indian Premier League, dismissing controversy linked to strained bilateral ties.

The BCCI confirmed there is no restriction on the left-arm pacer’s participation, even as diplomatic relations between India and Bangladesh remain tense following political changes in August 2025.

Relations have been uneasy since the fall of Bangladesh’s Awami League government on 5 August 2024, with the friction spilling into the sporting sphere.

Despite the backdrop, Kolkata Knight Riders snapped up Mustafizur for 9.2 crore rupees at the IPL 2026 auction, a move that triggered sharp reactions within India.

Sections of supporters called for a boycott of KKR matches, while criticism spread rapidly across social media platforms.

Clarifying the board’s stance, a senior BCCI official told InsideSport there was no legal or governmental hurdle to Mustafizur taking part in the league.

“We understand that this is a sensitive issue,” the official said. “We are keeping an eye on the diplomatic situation and remain in regular contact with the government.”

The official added, “There has been no directive from the government about banning Bangladeshi cricketers. Bangladesh is not an enemy country, so under the rules there is no barrier to Mustafizur playing in the IPL.”

Issuing a hardline warning, Som claimed players like Mustafizur would not be allowed to step outside Indian airports.

Despite the noise, the BCCI’s message is clear and firm: Mustafizur Rahman remains eligible to feature in the IPL under existing regulations.

BP/SP