Bangladesh bans IPL broadcast over Mustafizur Rahman's KKR snub

Bangladesh government has decided to take a strong stance "in public interest" after the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) released Mustafizur Rahman from their IPL (Indian Premier League) 2026 squad, following the instructions from the BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India). The government has banned the broadcast of IPL 2026 in the country

A statement from the ministry of information and broadcasting said that it had "noted that no reason was communicated for the decision behind Mustafizur Rahman's exclusion [from the IPL]" and that the development had "caused distress among the people of Bangladesh". The decision had been taken "in public interest", it said. The ministry's assistant secretary, Firoz Khan, signed the statement.

KKR had acquired the services of Mustafizur for a staggering INR 9.20 crore at the IPL 2026 mini-auction, making him the most expensive Bangladeshi signing in the league's history. He was expected to play a key role in the tournament and also mentor the young and talented Matheesha Pathirana along the way. However, after Mustafizur's release, KKR are left with only one overseas pacer in their ranks. The BCCI, however, has allowed them the option of seeking a replacement for the left-arm fast bowler.

Banning the broadcast of IPL matches isn't the only repercussion for Mustafizur's snub from KKR. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has also submitted a petition to the ICC, requesting that their T20 World Cup 2026 matches be shifted out of India. They have reportedly also written to the BCCI seeking an explanation about Mustafizur's withdrawal.

Bangladesh are in Group C, along with the West Indies, Italy, England, and Nepal. The Tigers are scheduled to play their first three matches at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata on February 7, 9, and 14, respectively. Their group-stage campaign ends on February 17 after they face Nepal at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.

Mustafizur, who has won the IPL previously, is currently playing for the Rangpur Riders in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) 2025-26.