Bangladesh Imposes Indefinite Ban on IPL Telecast Amid Mustafizur Rahman Dispute

Dhaka: In a decision that is causing a stir in the cricket world, the Bangladesh government has put an indefinite ban on the telecast of the Indian Premier League (IPL) across the country. This step was taken after the controversy involving the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman. The government says that no clear reason has emerged for the exclusion of Mastafizur from Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), due to which there is anger across the country.

How did the controversy regarding Mastafizur Rahman start?

Mastafizur Rahman is counted among the experienced players of IPL and is seen as a national hero in Bangladesh. The news of his name being removed from KKR came out before the 2026 season. The Bangladesh government claims that the decision was taken without any solid or public reason, which hurt the common people and cricket fans.

What is said in the government order?

In the statement issued by the government, it has been said that the people of Bangladesh have been saddened and disappointed by the decision of BCCI. Due to this, instructions have been given to ban the telecast of all matches and programs related to IPL “until further orders”. This order has been issued with the approval of the competent authority and keeping in mind public interest.

Will this controversy impact IPL beyond this?

This matter is no longer limited to IPL only. Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has asked the International Cricket Council (ICC) to shift its matches in India to Sri Lanka in the 2026 Men's T20 World Cup. BCB has refused to send a team to India citing security and lack of trust.

What will be the impact on India-Bangladesh cricket relations?

Experts believe that if the situation does not improve, the bilateral cricket series between India and Bangladesh may be affected for a long time. Some people are also linking it to “situations like Pakistan,” where cricket relations came to a standstill due to political tension.

Overall, this controversy related to Mastafizur Rahman has now moved from sports to a diplomatic and emotional issue, the impact of which can be clearly seen on international cricket in the coming months.