New Delhi: Amid strained diplomatic relations between India and Bangladesh, questions have been raised over whether Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman will be allowed to play in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. The controversy intensified after Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) signed him for ₹9.20 crore at the mini auction. Now, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has made its position clear.
No ban without government directive, says BCCI
The BCCI has ruled out any immediate move to bar Bangladeshi players from the IPL. The board has adopted a “wait and watch” approach, stating that no strict decision will be taken unless the Government of India issues a formal directive.
Read More :- Three Indians, Including One Woman, Added to FIFA Referees List for 2026
A senior BCCI official said the situation is sensitive but under constant review. “At the moment, there is nothing that warrants a ban on Bangladeshi players. Mustafizur Rahman will be allowed to play. Bangladesh is not an enemy nation,” the official said.
Why KKR’s decision triggered backlash
Mustafizur was the only Bangladeshi cricketer sold at the IPL 2026 mini auction. KKR’s big-money move quickly drew criticism on social media, with fans and a few political voices questioning the participation of Bangladeshi players amid rising political tensions.
It is worth noting that during the IPL 2025 auction, no franchise bid for any Bangladeshi player. That contrast has added fuel to the debate following KKR’s latest signing.
NOC from BCB could decide availability
While BCCI has given a green signal, Mustafizur’s availability is still subject to clearance from the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB). Bangladesh are scheduled to play an ODI and T20I series against New Zealand in April. If the BCB denies a No Objection Certificate (NOC), the left-arm pacer could miss a significant part of IPL 2026.
Given the current political climate, there is also a possibility that the BCB may delay its decision or that the player himself opts out.
Visa issue unlikely to be a hurdle
The BCCI is in discussions with the Ministry of External Affairs regarding visas for Bangladeshi players ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026. Bangladesh are set to play their group-stage matches in Kolkata and Mumbai. Since IPL 2026 begins roughly 10 days after the World Cup ends, officials believe Mustafizur’s visa can be extended seamlessly.
Read More :- T20 World Cup at Home to Tough New Zealand Tour: Why 2026 Could Define Indian Cricket
“Mustafizur will apply for a T20 World Cup visa, which can be extended for the IPL. Visa clearance should not be a major issue,” the BCCI official added, while also confirming that no negative signals have been received from the BCB so far.
IPL’s costliest Bangladeshi player
With KKR paying ₹9.20 crore, Mustafizur Rahman has become the most expensive Bangladeshi player in IPL history. Whether he eventually takes the field in IPL 2026 will depend on off-field developments, but for now, the BCCI has made it clear — there is no ban in place.
