Bangladesh Players Return to IPL Soon? BCCI Official Breaks Silence

IPL chairman Arun Dhumal called the Mustafizur Rahman episode unfortunate and hinted Bangladeshi players could return to the IPL after 2026 season.

IPL chairman Arun Dhumal indicated that issues faced by Bangladeshi players before IPL 2026 may not continue. He described the Mustafizur Rahman situation as unfortunate and expects Bangladesh players to return to the IPL in the future.

“It is unfortunate, I would say, the way things unfold at times. I do not think the government has any interest or any role to play in running cricket day to day. The government is supportive of cricket at large. But, yes, sometimes events happen around us and decisions follow. I am sure good sense will prevail and that this will not be the case going forward,” Dhumal told the Financial Times.

Rahman had secured a Rs. 9 crore deal with Kolkata Knight Riders at the auction. However, he did not feature after being released before the season. Bangladesh later skipped the 2026 T20 World Cup as they were unwilling to play in India, leading to Scotland’s inclusion. Rahman then joined the Pakistan Super League.

Dhumal suggested that external circumstances influenced decisions during that phase. He maintained that authorities will aim to avoid similar situations in the future. However, he refused to comment on whether any pressure was applied on Kolkata Knight Riders.

WATCH ALSO | MS Dhoni Returns To The Nets Ahead Of CSK vs PBKS Match After Being Ruled Out For 2 Weeks

“I would only say it was unfortunate. Beyond that, I do not have much knowledge,” he added.

Arun Dhumal also addressed the debate around cricket and politics. He stated that sport should ideally function independently of political influence, but acknowledged that the system involves multiple layers of authority. Lastly, Dhumal reiterated that their primary role is to safeguard cricket.