The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) is weighing a formal request to the International Cricket Council (ICC) to shift its ICC Men’s T20 World Cup fixtures from India to Sri Lanka, following the controversial release of fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman by IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).
Mustafizur, signed by KKR for Rs9.2 crore ahead of the 2026 IPL season, was dropped after the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) intervened, citing political tensions. His inclusion had already sparked criticism amid protests over the treatment of religious minorities in Bangladesh. KKR later confirmed his release, noting that the decision was made in consultation with the BCCI and that a replacement player would be allowed under IPL regulations.
Player Safety Concerns
Bangladesh is scheduled to play three of its four Group C matches at Kolkata’s Eden Gardens — against West Indies, Italy, and England — with the fourth match against Nepal set for Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium. The tournament begins on February 7.
Following an emergency board meeting, BCB Media Committee Chairman Amzad Hussain told ESPNcricinfo:
“We have three matches of the T20 World Cup in Kolkata, so we will write to the ICC regarding what has happened today.”
Calls to Shift Matches
Bangladesh sports adviser Asif Nazrul echoed concerns, stating on social media that he would instruct the BCB to request their matches be moved to Sri Lanka, the tournament’s co‑host.
“If a Bangladeshi cricketer cannot play in India despite being contracted, the entire team cannot feel safe. I have instructed the Board to request that Bangladesh’s World Cup matches be held in Sri Lanka.”
The controversy has raised fresh questions about player safety, political influence in cricket, and the logistical challenges of hosting a global tournament across two nations.
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