Mustafizur Rahman Faces Threats Ahead of IPL 2026
Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman has found himself at the centre of a major controversy ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. Religious leaders in Ujjain have issued strong warnings, threatening to disrupt IPL matches if the left-arm fast bowler is allowed to take part in the tournament. So let’s know about Mustafizur Rahman IPL 2026 controversy.
The situation has escalated following rising tensions in India over recent reports of violence against the Hindu minority in Bangladesh. These developments have triggered anger among certain religious groups, who are now opposing the participation of Bangladeshi players in Indian sporting events.
Kolkata Knight Riders’ Signing Sparks Backlash
Mustafizur Rahman was picked up by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for ₹9.20 crore at the IPL 2026 auction, making him the only Bangladeshi cricketer to secure a contract this season. While the signing was seen as a tactical boost for KKR’s bowling attack, it quickly drew criticism from sections of the public.
Calls to boycott KKR began trending on social media, with users accusing the franchise of being insensitive amid ongoing sectarian unrest in Bangladesh.
Ujjain Seers Issue Pitch Invasion Threats
The controversy intensified after religious leaders in Ujjain openly warned of extreme measures. Mahavir Nath, chief priest of the Rinmukteshwar Mahadev Temple, stated that “ascetic warriors” would storm cricket stadiums to prevent matches involving the Bangladeshi player.
According to statements quoted by News18, the leaders accused Indian authorities of ignoring what they described as the “persecution” of Hindus in Bangladesh while continuing to allow Bangladeshi athletes to participate in Indian leagues.
Incidents in Bangladesh Fuel Anger
The outrage has been linked to two recent incidents in Bangladesh that deeply disturbed religious groups in India. On December 18, a Hindu factory worker, Dipu Chandra Das, was lynched and set on fire in the Mymensingh district following allegations of blasphemy—claims later found to have no supporting evidence.
Just days later, on December 24, another Hindu man, Amrit Mondal, was beaten to death in Rajbari district over separate accusations. These events intensified calls for action against Bangladeshi representation in Indian sports.
Dhirendra Shastri Joins the Chorus
Adding to the pressure, Bageshwar Dham’s Dhirendra Shastri condemned the violence as “deeply unfortunate.” He warned that Hindus in Bangladesh could face an existential threat if such incidents continue, urging authorities to consider offering refuge to those at risk.
IPL Organisers Face a New Security Challenge
The growing unrest presents a complex challenge for IPL organisers ahead of the 2026 season. With threats of protests and possible pitch invasions, concerns are mounting over security—both in Kolkata and at venues where KKR will play away matches.
While an outright boycott appears unlikely, one possible solution being discussed is resting Mustafizur Rahman for the opening matches of the season to allow tensions to subside.
What Lies Ahead for IPL 2026
As the IPL prepares for another blockbuster season, organisers will need to balance sporting integrity with public safety. How the Mustafizur Rahman situation is handled could set a precedent for dealing with politically and socially sensitive issues in the league going forward.
DOWNLOAD: STUMPSANDBAILS FANTASY CRICKET APP
DOWNLOAD: DRAGOZ SPORTS FANTASY CRICKET APP