Pakistan’s World Cup-winning star and former PCB chairman Ramiz Raja has come out in support of Bangladesh amid the ongoing cricketing dispute with India over the exclusion of one of the world’s top pacers, Mustafizur Rahman, from the Indian Premier League. At the same time, he also criticised India’s approach.
Currently commentating in the Bangladesh Premier League, the Pakistani legend stated clearly that Bangladesh’s decision not to travel to India for the World Cup due to security concerns is correct and justified. Ramiz Raja said, “In my opinion, Bangladesh has made the right decision. Player safety must come first.”
He also criticised India for mixing politics with sport. He added that despite not being involved in politics, Mustafizur was excluded under political pressure, which undermines the spirit of cricket.
Raja remarked, “Sport and politics should never be mixed. A world-class bowler like Mustafizur is not involved in any political issues, yet he has been removed under political pressure, and that spoils the spirit of cricket.”
Drawing parallels with India’s previous actions, the Pakistani legend added, “During the Asia Cup, India did not visit Pakistan citing security reasons and shifted its matches. What is happening with Bangladesh now is deeply unfortunate.”
