Fri Jan 02 12:09:14 UTC 2026: News Article:

Uncertainty Looms Over Mustafizur Rahman’s IPL 2026 Participation Amidst Political Concerns

New Delhi: The participation of Bangladeshi players, particularly pacer Mustafizur Rahman, in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season hangs in the balance as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) awaits directives from the government. The BCCI has declined to comment definitively on the matter, stating that they have not received any communication regarding a potential ban on Bangladeshi players.

The issue arose after Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) acquired Rahman for a record-breaking Rs 9.20 crore at the recent mini-auction, making him the most expensive Bangladeshi player in IPL history. The signing sparked debate following reports of violence against religious minorities in Bangladesh, with some questioning the ethical implications of his participation.

Sources within the BCCI have reiterated that government clearance is mandatory for all foreign players, including those from Bangladesh. “Franchises pick players that are in the pool. BCCI has to go by what the government says. We shall wait for directives,” a senior BCCI functionary told NDTV. News agency IANS reports that the government has not yet issued any formal communication on the matter.

Rahman, a seasoned IPL veteran with 65 wickets in 60 matches, has previously played for Sunrisers Hyderabad, Mumbai Indians, Rajasthan Royals, Delhi Capitals, and Chennai Super Kings.

Controversy escalated when spiritual guru Devkinandan Thakur publicly criticized KKR and its co-owner Shah Rukh Khan for signing Rahman, citing hurt sentiments among Hindus and followers of Sanatan Dharma due to alleged atrocities against Hindus in Bangladesh. These remarks have drawn mixed reactions from political leaders, with many emphasizing the need to separate sports from political and diplomatic considerations.

The BCCI maintains that they will abide by the government’s decision, leaving Rahman’s IPL future, and potentially that of other Bangladeshi players, uncertain as the league approaches.

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