Bangladesh government orders indefinite ban on IPL telecast amid row over Mustafizur's removal
PTC News Desk: The Bangladesh government has ordered an unprecedented indefinite ban on the telecast and promotion of Indian Premiere League following the controversy surrounding the removal of Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman from the Kolkata Knight Riders squad.
In an official communique, the authorities confirmed that all IPL-related broadcasts, promotions and event coverage have been suspended with immediate effect and will remain so until further orders.
According to the statement, the decision has been taken in the public interest and approved by the appropriate authority.
"There is no logical reason for this decision of the Indian Cricket Board and such a decision has distressed, shocked and angered the people of Bangladesh," the government order stated, reflecting the strong public sentiment that has built up around the issue.
"A request has been made to stop the promotion/broadcast of all games and events of the Indian Premier League (IPL) until further orders," the statement added.
Earlier the Bangladesh Cricket Board refused to send its national team to India for the upcoming ICC Mens's T20 World Cup citing security concerns and government advice. The decision follows KKR's move to release Mustafizur after BCCI directive.
"The Board reviewed the situation in detail, taking into account developments over the last 24 hours and expressed deep concern over the overall circumstances surrounding the participation of the Bangladesh National Team in matches scheduled to be played in India," the BCB said in a statement.
"Following a thorough assessment of the prevailing situation and the growing concerns regarding the safety and security of the Bangladesh contingent in India, and considering the advice from the Bangladesh Government, the Board of Directors resolved that the Bangladesh National Team will not travel to India for the tournament under the current conditions."
- With inputs from agencies
