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ICC steps in to defuse BCCI-BCB tensions [Source: X]
The International Cricket Council has stepped in as a mediator after a dispute surfaced between the Board of Control for Cricket in India and the Bangladesh Cricket Board. This situation arose after the BCCI instructed IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders to release Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman.
The issue started when the BCCI asked KKR to let go of Mustafizur Rahman, even though the franchise had bought him for INR 9.20 crore during the Abu Dhabi auction.
This instruction came at a sensitive time, as relations between India and Bangladesh have remained tense following recent incidents in Bangladesh involving the killing of Hindus.
Mustafizur Rahman row pushes ICC to mediate
Following the fallout, the ICC held multiple internal meetings on Monday in both Mumbai and Dubai. Senior officials from the BCCI and BCB were also consulted during these discussions.
The world cricket body is now working to resolve the matter quickly, as the T20 World Cup is only a month away. Any major disruption at this stage could create serious logistical challenges.
Bangladesh cricket board raises security concerns
The situation escalated further when the BCB refused to send its team to India for the February–March T20 World Cup. The BCB cited security concerns and requested that their matches be shifted to Sri Lanka, one of the tournament’s co-hosts.
ICC looks for middle ground
According to sources quoted by The Telegraph, the BCB has asked the ICC for time and will respond only after consulting the Bangladesh government. The ICC has shown flexibility and is open to making minor adjustments to the match schedule.
It is also important to note that the council has also assured Bangladesh of top-level security if they agree to play in India. A formal letter is expected soon, while a backup plan is also being prepared in case talks fail.
The ICC is aware that any change in venues will affect not only the group stage matches. The issue would grow larger if Bangladesh reach the Super Eights. Notably, ticket sales for the World Cup have already begun.
“ICC will try to coax and convince Bangladesh to play in India. It’s not just about the two teams, it also involves the spectators and fans, broadcasters, travelling media...” a veteran administrator, who has been associated with the world body, said.
It is understood that Bangladesh does not want a serious confrontation with the BCCI, as the Indian board holds significant financial influence in world cricket. A strained relationship could lead to financial or competitive losses for Bangladesh.
Meanwhile, the Bangladesh have also banned IPL broadcast following Mustafizur Rahman's KKR release.
What lies ahead for Bangladesh
Notably, Bangladesh are scheduled to play three of their four group matches at Eden Gardens, with one match in Mumbai. They are placed in Group C alongside England, West Indies, Nepal, and Italy.
If Bangladesh finally decide not to travel to India, their matches may be shifted to Sri Lanka, similar to arrangements made for Pakistan.
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