Bad news for BCCI as IPL 2026 telecast banned in Bangladesh after Mustafizur Rahman removal

KKR signed Mustafizur Rahman for Rs 9.20 crore in IPL 2026, but his sudden removal from the squad has created controversy in Bangladesh.

Bangladesh has indefinitely banned the broadcast of Indian Premier League (IPL) matches in the country following the controversy over Mustafizur Rahman’s removal from the upcoming 2026 edition of the league. The Bangladesh authorities did not provide a reason for the ban.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had requested Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to release Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman from its squad for the IPL 2026 edition amid growing tension in bilateral ties between India and Bangladesh.

KKR had acquired the 30-year-old left-arm pacer for Rs 9.20 crore, up from a base price of Rs 2 crore, after a competitive bidding war involving Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals at last month’s players’ auction.

The BCCI has confirmed that KKR will be allowed to name a replacement player if needed. When asked for a reason behind the decision, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia said, “Because of recent developments all across.”

Following this, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) announced it will not travel to India for next month’s Men’s T20 World Cup. They have also formally requested the International Cricket Council (ICC) to consider relocating Bangladesh’s matches outside India.

Bangladesh is currently scheduled to play three league-stage matches in Kolkata and its final league fixture in Mumbai.

The Bangladesh Government released a statement, saying “It is being informed that a directive from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has come to light regarding the exclusion of Bangladeshi star player Mr. Mustafizur Rahman from the Kolkata Knight Riders team for the Indian Premier League (IPL) cricket tournament, scheduled to be held from 26 March 2026. No rational reason for such a decision by the Indian Cricket Board is known, and such a decision has pained, saddened, and aggrieved the people of Bangladesh.”

“Under these circumstances, until further notice, a request is made as per instructions to stop the broadcast/telecast of all matches and programmes of the Indian Premier League (IPL).”

“This order is issued with the approval of the proper authority and in the public interest.”

This move has escalated tensions in the cricketing ties between the two nations and will affect viewership and planning for the IPL 2026 edition in Bangladesh.

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