Bangladesh bans IPL broadcasts amid Mustafizur controversy

WEB DESK: Bangladesh has imposed an indefinite ban on the broadcast and promotion of the Indian Premier League (IPL) within the country, Indian media reported on Monday.

According to the reports, the decision was taken by the Bangladesh government following a controversy involving national fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman, who was dropped from the Kolkata Knight Riders squad.

Indian media said the move reflects growing tensions over the issue and marks a significant step by Dhaka against India’s premier cricket league. No official statement has yet been issued by the Bangladesh government detailing the scope or duration of the ban.

The controversy

The KKR released Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman from their squad following a directive from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the franchise had confirmed on Saturday. The decision came amid escalating diplomatic tensions between India and Bangladesh.

According to the BCCI, the move was taken in light of “recent developments”, with secretary Devajit Saikia stating that KKR had been instructed to part ways with the player. He added that the franchise would be allowed to sign a replacement in line with IPL regulations. KKR later issued a brief statement confirming Mustafizur’s release and said further details on a replacement would be announced in due course.

Relations between India and Bangladesh have been strained in recent months. Tensions intensified after protests were held near Bangladesh’s High Commission in New Delhi over the killing of Dipu Chandra Das, a Hindu factory worker in Bangladesh’s Mymensingh district, who was allegedly lynched over accusations of making derogatory remarks about the Prophet Muhammad. Bangladeshi authorities have said 12 suspects were arrested in the case.

Bilateral ties had already been under pressure following former prime minister Sheikh Hasina’s departure to New Delhi in 2024 amid mass protests at home.

Mustafizur, 30, is one of Bangladesh’s most prominent fast bowlers and has played for several IPL franchises, taking 65 wickets in 60 matches. He was bought by KKR for ₹92 million at last month’s auction, making him the most expensive Bangladeshi player in IPL history. The upcoming IPL season begins on March 26.

Web Desk