Bangladesh pace star Mustafizur Rahman has been subjected to threats from Indian political leaders after signing with Kolkata Knight Riders for the 2026 Indian Premier League.
Mustafizur, who has previously played for five different IPL franchises over eight seasons, had largely avoided controversies off the field. This year marks his first season with the Shah Rukh Khan-owned Kolkata Knight Riders. Yet, even before the IPL began, the left-arm fast bowler faced protests and threats linked to political tensions.
Cross-border hostilities spilling into sport are not new in the subcontinent. With allegations of persecution of Hindu minorities in Bangladesh as a backdrop, relations between the two cricketing nations have been strained. Mustafizur was reportedly signed for INR 9.20 crore — the highest fee ever paid to a Bangladeshi player in IPL history — but Hindutva leaders’ opposition has cast doubt over his participation.
Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Nirupam urged Shah Rukh Khan to remove Mustafizur from the team. Speaking to news agency ANI, he said:
“When the entire country is angry and resentful towards Bangladesh, and there is no connection between Indian citizens and Bangladeshis, anyone coming from there will face that anger. If a Bangladeshi cricketer is in Shah Rukh Khan’s team, he will become a major target. We request that he be removed before that happens. It would be better for him and would also protect India’s interests.”
Previously, Shiv Sena (UBT) spokesperson Anand Dubey had called for a ban on Bangladeshi players in the IPL, stating:
“Bangladeshi cricketers should not be allowed to play on Indian soil. Pakistani and Bangladeshi players should be banned. They spread hatred against us and kill our Hindu brothers and sisters. Bangladeshis must be removed immediately from Shah Rukh Khan’s team. If no action is taken, it will show disregard for the sentiments of the nation while profiting here.”
Hardline BJP leader from Uttar Pradesh, Sangeet Som, also issued a direct warning to Shah Rukh Khan regarding Mustafizur:
“If players like Mustafizur Rahman come to play in India, they will not be able to step outside the airport — this is my pledge,” he said. “Traitors like Shah Rukh Khan should take this seriously. He is committing an act of betrayal, despite reaching his position because of the love of the people of this country.”
