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IPL risks losing Bangladesh fans after Mustafizur Rahman snub, warns ex-captain

Akshita Patel

Mohammad Ashraful reacts to Mustafizur sacking [Source: @AmyStone2022, @CricCrazyJohns/X.com]Mohammad Ashraful reacts to Mustafizur sacking [Source: @AmyStone2022, @CricCrazyJohns/X.com]

Former Bangladesh captain Mohammad Ashraful has voiced strong concern over the exclusion of Mustafizur Rahman from the IPL 2026. He warned that the decision could hurt the tournament’s popularity in Bangladesh.

On Saturday, the BCCI instructed KKR to release Rahman from the squad amid political and social conflict in Bangladesh. Kolkata had bought the pacer for ₹9.2 crores.

However, upon BCCI’s order, the franchise had to release Mustafizur and will be allowed to seek a replacement.

Bangladesh coach warns IPL of consequences 

Meanwhile, former Bangladesh batter and present coach Mohammad Ashraful said the controversy has disappointed not only the player but also millions of Bangladeshi cricket fans who closely follow the IPL every year.

Talking to the media, Ashraful claimed that even Indian journalists contacted him to understand his reaction. He believes the upcoming IPL season was particularly important for Mustafizur Rahman.

“They asked me how I felt after hearing the news and how surprised I was. Honestly, I feel cricket and politics should never mix. I was completely stunned. Mustafizur deserved this opportunity, and Kolkata showed interest in him for the first time,” Ashraful said.

The former skipper argued that the impact goes far beyond one player missing out. He believes IPL viewership may drop massively in Bangladesh, which could be devastating for the league.

“It hurts me to hear that he can’t play. I believe it’s upsetting for all 180 million Bangladeshis who follow cricket. Cricket should remain cricket, and external issues shouldn’t interfere. We have millions of fans in Bangladesh who watch every season. The IPL could lose a portion of its Bangladesh fanbase if such incidents continue," he added.

Ashraful later added that cricket shouldn’t be mixed with politics, as it will only harm the players and the sport at large.

BCB retaliates after IPL sacks Mustafizur

Bangladesh is considering a strong move for T20 World Cup 2026 by asking the ICC to shift its matches from India to Sri Lanka. The BCB has raised safety concerns following Mustafizur Rahman’s forced exit from the IPL, which they see as linked to recent political tensions. 

After an emergency meeting, BCB officials said they will formally write to the ICC, citing doubts over player security, especially in Kolkata, where Bangladesh are scheduled to play. 

Bangladesh’s sports adviser also hinted at stopping IPL broadcasts, citing growing unease over touring India for the World Cup.