Asif Nazrul Calls for IPL Broadcast Ban Over Mustafizur Omission

Bangladesh’s Youth and Sports Adviser, Asif Nazrul, has sharply condemned the decision by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to exclude national fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman from their Indian Premier League (IPL) squad. According to multiple sources, the move was reportedly made under the directive of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). The decision has triggered widespread anger among Bangladeshi cricket fans, prompting urgent calls for protective measures to safeguard the nation’s cricketing interests.

On his verified Facebook page, Nazrul stated:
“KKR, under pressure from extremist communal groups, has excluded Bangladesh’s Mustafizur Rahman from their squad at the behest of the Indian cricket board. I strongly denounce and protest this decision.”

Beyond expressing his condemnation, Nazrul has proposed that the Bangladesh government suspend IPL broadcasts within the country. He explained:
“I have formally requested the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to halt IPL coverage in Bangladesh. Under no circumstances should our cricket, our players, or our national dignity be subjected to insult. The era of powerlessness is over.”

The KKR decision has also raised concerns regarding the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup, scheduled in India this February. Bangladesh is slated to play three group-stage matches in Kolkata and one in Mumbai. Nazrul warned that if contractual or discriminatory barriers prevent Mustafizur from participating, the safety of the entire national squad could be compromised. Consequently, he has directed the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) to formally request the ICC to relocate the matches to Sri Lanka.

Nazrul further clarified:
“As the minister responsible for sports, I have instructed the BCB to send a written explanation to the ICC. If Bangladesh players are barred due to contractual issues, ensuring the team’s safety becomes impossible. Therefore, a formal request must be submitted to transfer the World Cup matches to Sri Lanka.”

The key points of Nazrul’s stance and proposals are summarised below:

Through these measures, Nazrul emphasises the importance of safeguarding the honour of Bangladeshi cricket and its players. His actions aim to ensure participation in international tournaments under safe, politically neutral, and professionally equitable conditions, allowing players to compete according to their contracts and merit.