Will BCB Request a Venue Change for T20 WC from India After BCCI Forces KKR to Release Mustafizur Rahman?
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Synopsis
The BCB is taking action after the BCCI's controversial decision to release Mustafizur Rahman from KKR, citing player safety concerns. The escalating tensions between India and Bangladesh may lead to a request for a venue change for the upcoming T20 World Cup.
Key Takeaways
- BCB is concerned about player safety.
- BCCI's decision has escalated tensions.
- Mustafizur was signed for a record amount.
- India-Bangladesh relations are strained.
- ICC's decision will be pivotal for T20 World Cup matches.
Mumbai, Jan 3 (NationPress) - Following a directive from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to release Mustafizur Rahman from his IPL 2026 contract, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has made the decision to approach the ICC regarding a potential shift in venues for their matches in the upcoming ICC Men's T20 World Cup. This tournament is set to be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, according to a recent news report.
Bangladesh is slated to face the West Indies on February 7, 2026, Italy on February 9, and England on February 14 at Eden Gardens in Kolkata, and Nepal on February 17 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.
The BCCI's refusal to permit Mustafizur to participate in games in India, following demands from certain groups in response to recent violence against Hindus in Bangladesh, has led the BCB to express serious concerns regarding the safety of its players in India, prompting their request for a venue change.
A senior official from the BCB stated to Telecom Asia Sport (www.telecomasia.net) that they will present their case to the ICC following the BCCI's decision, as tensions between the two nations escalate.
“While I cannot comment on the release of Mustafizur, as that is their internal issue, our participation in the World Cup is an ICC event, and the final decision will be made after thorough evaluation,” the BCB official remarked to www.telecomasia.net.
The BCB plans to address the T20 World Cup venue issue with the ICC without delay and noted that Pakistan has also opted not to play in India after India declined to travel to Pakistan for the 2025 Champions Trophy.
BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia informed IANS that they have instructed KKR to release Mustafizur due to the unrest prevailing in Bangladesh.
“The BCCI has mandated KKR to free the Bangladeshi player Mustafizur Rahman from their squad. KKR will be permitted to choose a replacement player of their choice,” stated Saikia.
The Kolkata Knight Riders, owned by Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khan, subsequently confirmed Mustafizur’s release.
“The Kolkata Knight Riders can confirm that the BCCI or IPL, as the IPL's governing body, has instructed the release of Mustafizur Rahman from their roster ahead of the forthcoming IPL season. This action has been executed following proper protocols and discussions, under the guidance of the Board of Control for Cricket in India. The BCCI will allow KKR to select a replacement player in accordance with IPL regulations, with further specifics to be communicated later,” the franchise stated in a release.
Mustafizur, aged 30, was acquired by KKR at the recent mini-auction for 92 million rupees ($1.1 million), marking the highest sum ever allocated to a Bangladeshi player in the league.
He has previously competed for five IPL teams across eight seasons, debuting in 2016 with the Sunrisers Hyderabad, where he contributed to their title victory and was honored as the Emerging Player of the Tournament, as reported.
The diplomatic relations between India and Bangladesh have deteriorated following a mob-led regime change months ago, leading to violence against Hindus in Bangladesh by groups with extremist ideologies.
The BCCI recently postponed a proposed series featuring the Indian men's team touring Bangladesh for ODIs and T20s. Although the BCB has included the series in its calendar for September 2026, prospects for its execution appear bleak given the prevailing situation.
Additionally, the BCB is expected to bring this venue change issue to the ICC's attention during discussions concerning the T20 World Cup arrangements.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize that while tensions between India and Bangladesh are rising, the safety of players must always be a priority. The BCB's proactive approach in seeking a venue change illustrates their commitment to protecting their athletes. This situation warrants careful observation as it unfolds.
NationPress
04/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did BCB seek a venue change for the T20 World Cup?
The BCB is concerned about player safety in India after the BCCI's decision to release Mustafizur Rahman from KKR due to unrest in Bangladesh.
What triggered the BCCI's decision to release Mustafizur Rahman?
The BCCI's directive was influenced by demands from certain groups in India following recent violence against Hindus in Bangladesh.
What matches are scheduled for Bangladesh in the T20 World Cup?
Bangladesh is scheduled to play against the West Indies, Italy, England, and Nepal during the T20 World Cup.
How much was Mustafizur Rahman signed for by KKR?
Mustafizur Rahman was signed by KKR for 92 million rupees ($1.1 million), marking the highest amount paid for a Bangladeshi player in the IPL.
What has been the impact of recent events on India-Bangladesh relations?
Diplomatic relations have deteriorated following violence against Hindus in Bangladesh, leading to increased tensions and uncertainty in sports engagements.
