The ongoing controversy surrounding Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman’s exclusion from the Indian Premier League (IPL) has drawn criticism and sparked political overtones, with senior Bangladeshi advisers weighing in on the matter.
Finance Adviser Salehuddin Ahmed described the situation as unfortunate, noting that it did not originate in Bangladesh. “The incident centred on Mustafizur Rahman did not start in Bangladesh. It is regrettable. It has not been good for either of the two countries,” he said during a press briefing at the Secretariat after a Government Procurement Advisory Committee meeting.
Salehuddin added that suspending IPL broadcasts in Bangladesh would not affect the country’s economy. “From my side, I do not see any impact. Financeally, the decisions we are taking are reasonable and linked to the economy. At least regarding procurement, no effect will be felt,” he said.
He emphasised that the incident has been partly politicised but expressed hope for a measured resolution. “Mustafizur is a good, famous player. He was signed for strategic reasons, not as a favour. Suddenly stopping him is very unfortunate. What has followed is also regrettable. An emotional element has played a role here, but both sides will consider and resolve it,” he said, drawing a historical analogy to the Olympics held under Hitler’s regime.
Energy Adviser Muhammad Fauzul Kabir Khan affirmed that Bangladesh’s response has been proper. “India initially called Mustafizur and then withdrew him. We protested against that, which is why IPL broadcasts have been suspended. Bangladesh’s reaction is strong and appropriate,” he said. He added that the Bangladesh Cricket Board’s request to change the T20 World Cup venue from India was also justified and would prompt the other side to reconsider.
Salehuddin reiterated that the actions taken are measured and will not harm Finance or trade relations with India. “We hope that both sides, particularly where this originated, will act wisely so that cricket continues and our Finance and commercial ties remain intact,” he said.
The Mustafizur controversy has put Bangladesh’s participation in the upcoming T20 World Cup in India under uncertainty, with the Bangladesh Cricket Board formally informing the International Cricket Council of its decision not to send the national team.
