The controversial exclusion of Mustafizur Rahman from the Indian Premier League has sparked widespread debate. Now, chairman of the Indian Premier League (IPL), Arun Singh Dhumal described the decision as “unfortunate” while addressing the ongoing discussions surrounding the incident.
Mustafiz was bought by Kolkata Knight Riders for INR 9.2 crore at the November 2025 auction. However, he was released in early January following directives from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), amid protests from political parties and religious groups in India over allegations of minority persecution in Bangladesh.
The incident escalated tensions between the cricket boards of Bangladesh and India. Citing security concerns, Bangladesh later withdrew from participating in the T20 World Cup in India, with Scotland replacing them in the tournament.
Just three days after his IPL exit, Mustafiz signed with a franchise in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), where he is currently playing while the IPL continues in India.
In an interview with the Financial Times, Dhumal was asked about political interference in the IPL. He said:
“I would only say it was unfortunate. Beyond that, I don’t have much information.”
He also clarified that while Pakistani players have been absent from the IPL since 2008 due to political tensions, the Indian government does not interfere in daily cricket operations.
“Sometimes, the way events unfold is unfortunate. I don’t believe the government has any interest or role in daily cricket administration. The government broadly supports the sport. But occasionally, situations arise and decisions are made accordingly. I am confident such incidents will not happen again in the future.”
