BCB will approach ICC over WC participation if needed: Bulbul

The removal of Mustafizur Rahman from the IPL has sparked diplomatic tension beyond the cricket field, raising questions over whether Bangladesh will travel to India for the upcoming T20 World Cup. While no final decision has been taken, Bangladesh Cricket Board president Aminul Islam Bulbul said the board would approach the ICC if necessary.

Speaking to journalists in Sylhet on Saturday, the BCB president said the board has not yet received any official communication regarding Mustafizur’s exclusion. However, he clarified the board’s position on team security in the context of the World Cup and highlighted the ICC’s role.

Kolkata Knight Riders had signed Mustafizur for a record Rs 9.20 crore, but reports said he was dropped due to the political situation and on instructions from the BCCI. On the issue, Bulbul said their counterpart was the BCCI and that Bangladesh plays under ICC supervision. He added that Mustafizur was supposed to play franchise cricket, but the board has not received any official statement or information yet. Once that is received, they will decide on the next steps.

Regarding security concerns over playing the World Cup in India, Bulbul said the tournament is organised by the ICC and India is only the host. If any communication is needed, they will contact the ICC. He said he could not give specific answers at the moment and would discuss the matter with the head of cricket operations.

BCB media committee chairman Amzad Hossain said they had never faced such a situation before and it was a first-time experience. He said no action could be taken until official information was received, but stressed that the dignity and security of Bangladeshi cricketers would always be the board’s top priority and the best possible decision would be taken accordingly.