Bangladesh has formally raised concerns with world cricket’s governing body after a recent development involving one of its leading players triggered wider diplomatic and sporting unease.
Bangladesh seeks shift of T20 World Cup amid growing tensions
The issue came to the forefront after the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) approached the International Cricket Council (ICC) to review venue arrangements for the upcoming tournament. Bangladesh seeks shift of T20 World Cup matches scheduled in India, citing growing unease over player safety and professional dignity. The request follows the release of pacer Mustafizur Rahman from his Indian Premier League contract, a move that has intensified scrutiny of cross-border cricket relations. As the situation escalated, Bangladesh seeks shift of T20 World Cup fixtures to Sri Lanka, which is also a co-host of the global event.
Officials in Dhaka believe the incident has broader implications beyond franchise cricket, especially with the national team set to compete in high-profile matches on Indian soil. The matter has quickly evolved into a sensitive issue involving governance, security, and international sporting commitments.
How Mustafizur Rahman’s IPL exit sparked the row
The controversy began when the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) directed Kolkata Knight Riders to release Mustafizur Rahman from their squad. The left-arm pacer had been signed for Rs 9.20 crore but was asked to exit following what the BCCI termed “recent developments.” In response, Bangladesh seeks shift of T20 World Cup games, arguing that a professional contract being terminated under such circumstances raises serious concerns.
Bangladesh’s Youth and Sports Adviser Asif Nazrul publicly stated that the interim government had instructed the BCB to approach the ICC. According to him, Bangladesh seeks shift of T20 World Cup venues to ensure the safety and respect of its players. He also warned that Bangladesh could consider suspending IPL broadcasts domestically if tensions worsen.
ICC dilemma as Bangladesh seeks shift of T20 World Cup
With the tournament schedule already finalized, Bangladesh seeks shift of T20 World Cup matches from Kolkata and Mumbai to Sri Lanka, where logistical challenges would be comparatively manageable. However, the BCCI has indicated that any last-minute changes would be extremely difficult due to travel, broadcast, and accommodation planning.
As Bangladesh seeks shift of T20 World Cup fixtures, the ICC has yet to issue an official response. Bangladesh are set to open their campaign in Kolkata on February 7, but uncertainty now clouds the build-up. The episode has further strained bilateral cricket relations, with observers warning that the dispute could impact future engagements as Bangladesh seeks shift of T20 World Cup matches in an already tense environment.
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