Dhaka, 04 January (H.S.): Bangladesh's interim government announced on Sunday a formal demand to shift all its matches in the upcoming ICC Men's T20 World Cup away from India, following the controversial release of star pacer Mustafizur Rahman from the Indian Premier League (IPL)'s Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). The nation wants its four group-stage fixtures—currently scheduled in India—relocated to Sri Lanka, citing player safety and dignity concerns.

Strong Denunciation from Bangladesh Leadership

Youth and Sports Advisor Asif Nazrul declared to the state news agency BSS that Bangladesh will not tolerate any insult to its cricket, cricketers, or nation. The days of slavery are over. Nazrul confirmed he has instructed the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) to write to the International Cricket Council (ICC), arguing, When a Bangladeshi player is denied permission to play in India despite a valid contract, the entire team cannot feel secure competing there for the World Cup.

The decision follows KKR's announcement on Saturday, January 3, 2026, releasing the 30-year-old left-arm pacer. Sources indicated the move came after advice from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) amid escalating India-Bangladesh tensions.

BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia acknowledged recommending the release in light of recent developments. KKR, co-owned by Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, stated Mustafizur was let go after full process and consultation.

Mustafizur had been bought for over $1 million at the December 2025 IPL auction, having previously played for multiple IPL franchises.T20 World Cup Context and PrecedentThe T20 World Cup begins on February 7, 2026, with India and Sri Lanka as joint hosts. Bangladesh's four group matches are presently allotted to Indian venues, while Pakistan—under a prior agreement—will play all its games in neutral Sri Lanka to accommodate India-Pakistan neutrality protocols in multi-nation tournaments.

Nazrul has directed the BCB to formally request the ICC shift Bangladesh's matches to Sri Lanka as well.

BCB President Aminul Islam Bulbul announced an emergency board meeting, stressing, The dignity and security of our cricketers remain our top priority. Decisions will be taken at the right time keeping these factors in mind.

Broader India-Bangladesh Political Strain

Relations have deteriorated since the 2024 Dhaka mass uprising that toppled Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's government. India's Ministry of External Affairs recently condemned continued hostility against minorities in Bangladesh, while interim chief and Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus accused India of exaggerating violence reports.

Additional Escalation: IPL Broadcast Ban Demand

Nazrul further announced he has asked Bangladesh's Information and Broadcasting Advisor to ban IPL broadcasts in the country, intensifying the diplomatic and sporting standoff between the two neighbours.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar