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Cricket sparks a diplomatic storm as Bangladesh bans IPL 2026 broadcasts after the Mustafizur Rahman controversy. With ICC talks pending and World Cup venues in question, is this just sport or the start of a bigger cricket cold war? Unfolding now!
Bangladesh govt has ordered a ban on IPL telecast within the country
Dhaka: Amid rising political and cricket-related tensions between India and Bangladesh, the Bangladesh government has taken a major step by banning the broadcast of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 in the country. The decision reportedly comes in the wake of recent disputes between the two nations involving cricketing matters.
The situation intensified after Bangladesh expressed strong displeasure over decisions linked to Indian cricket authorities. According to reports, the BCCI had requested that Bangladeshi pacer Mustafizur Rahman be withdrawn from his IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), citing security concerns. This move sparked outrage in Bangladesh, and the issue soon escalated beyond cricket into a government-level matter.
3 players who can replace Mustafizur Rahman in KKR squad for IPL 2026#mustafizurrahman #kkr #IPL2026 pic.twitter.com/VL1oTHBKbr
— Dynamite News (@DynamiteNews_) January 3, 2026
Sources within the Bangladesh government say the ban on IPL broadcasts was imposed keeping in mind national sentiment and respect for Bangladeshi players. The decision was taken after consultations with sports advisers and relevant ministries, aiming to send a firm message at the international level.
IPL 2026: SRK forced to act as BCCI steps in; KKR takes final call on Mustafizur Rahman
The ban has had a direct impact on cricket fans and broadcasting companies in Bangladesh. The IPL has been one of the most-watched cricket tournaments in the country, and the sudden halt in its broadcast has left many fans disappointed.
It remains unclear whether the ban is temporary or will continue for an extended period. The decision may be reviewed in the coming days depending on diplomatic talks and the evolving situation between the two countries.
BCCI clarifies Mustafizur Rahman release is limited to IPL 2026, World Cup talks pending
Meanwhile, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) reportedly sent a formal letter to the ICC on Sunday afternoon, January 4, requesting that Bangladesh’s matches against India in the T20 World Cup 2026 be scheduled outside India. The ICC’s response is still awaited.
If the request is accepted, both Pakistan and Bangladesh could play all their T20 World Cup matches in Sri Lanka. Such a move could have a significant impact on tournament logistics and the future of cricket diplomacy in the region.
