Navi Mumbai: Tensions between India and Bangladesh in cricket have intensified recently, following a series of administrative and sporting decisions that have stirred controversy. The friction began when the Kolkata Knight Riders released Bangladeshi fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman per directives from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) ahead of the current Indian Premier League (IPL) season. This decision prompted a strong reaction from the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), which wrote to the International Cricket Council (ICC) requesting that Bangladesh’s matches in the 2026 T20 World Cup not be hosted in India. As of now, there has been no response from the ICC regarding these communications.
In light of these developments, former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra provided his insights during an exclusive interview with India TV. “The IPL is our domestic tournament, so it is our right to make decisions regarding it. National interest comes first. The BCCI has decided that we do not want players from this country to participate. This could apply to any nation, such as Pakistan or even the Maldives, where there was an ‘India Out’ campaign. Therefore, I cannot welcome players from these countries in my domestic tournament,” Chopra stated.
Chopra went on to discuss the separation between domestic and international cricket, noting that the BCCI’s decision only affects the IPL. He emphasized that opportunities for bilateral series remain open for all teams. “If the BCCI has made any decisions in domestic cricket, I support them. This is my domestic tournament. At the international level, we have not stated that we will refuse to play bilateral series. No one can prevent those who wish to participate. Whoever wants to go, goes; whoever wants to come, comes. The invitation is open. The rest is up to Bangladesh to decide what is in their best interest,” he added.
The BCB has also taken internal measures, recently dismissing Director Nazrul Islam from his role as chairman of the finance committee after he made disparaging remarks about Bangladeshi players, including calls for Tamim Iqbal to be labeled an “Indian agent.” Reports indicate that two ICC representatives are expected to visit Bangladesh to meet with board officials and discuss the ongoing issues.
