Dhaka: Finance Adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed today stated that the suspension of IPL broadcasts in Bangladesh should not be viewed through an economic or trade lens. He emphasized that this issue has not affected government decisions, procurement processes, or broader financial engagements. ‘There has been no impact at all on our economy,’ he said, adding, ‘Our international tenders and purchases are conducted transparently and independently. Sports or such issues were not even mentioned in our discussions. From my perspective, there is no connection between this matter and our economic decisions.’
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Dr Salehuddin made these remarks while addressing reporters after chairing meetings of the Advisers Council Committee on Economic Affairs and the Advisers Council Committee on Government Purchase at the Bangladesh Secretariat. Alongside him, Power and Energy Adviser Dr Fouzul Kabir Khan also briefed the media.
Both advisers described Bangladesh’s response to the situation involving cricketer Mustafizur Rahman and the Indian Premier League (IPL) as ‘robust and appropriate’. They stressed that Bangladesh remains committed to maintaining constructive relations with India, ensuring that sports, trade, and diplomacy continue without unnecessary disruption. Concerns over any adverse economic or commercial impact on the country were dismissed.
Dr Salehuddin highlighted that the controversy did not originate from Bangladesh, acknowledging Mustafizur Rahman as a globally recognized player and a sporting ambassador for the country. ‘This didn’t start from Bangladesh. Mustafizur is a very good and famous player. He was selected purely on merit, for technical reasons, not out of any favour. Suddenly restricting him from playing …is unfortunate. It is regrettable for both countries.’
He further cautioned against mixing sports with politics, urging restraint to prevent escalation of tensions. ‘We don’t want this to aggravate relations between the two countries,’ he said, noting that sports have historically continued even during political tensions.
Energy Adviser Dr Fouzul Kabir Khan echoed similar sentiments, describing the government’s stance as proportionate and justified. ‘There is always an action and a reaction. We’ve to be careful so that no one goes overboard. When a Bangladeshi player is called and then suddenly withdrawn, a response is expected. I believe the response was proper, robust and appropriate.’
He added that Bangladesh’s actions concerning IPL broadcasting and venue changes for upcoming international tournaments were clear yet measured signals. ‘This response is not only justified, it is also making the other side reflect,’ he remarked, referencing concerns within India about politicizing sports.
Referring to Indian parliamentarian Shashi Tharoor’s comments, Dr Fouzul Kabir Khan emphasized the importance of avoiding such actions for regional goodwill and the spirit of cricket.
Reiterating the government’s position, Dr Salehuddin Ahmed affirmed that Bangladesh had not taken any reactive or retaliatory measures but responded in a balanced manner. ‘Bangladesh didn’t initiate anything. A top player was suddenly restricted. The response we gave was completely robust and entirely appropriate. This is simply a reflection of Newton’s third law – every action has a reaction.’
He concluded by noting that cultural and sporting figures often serve as bridges between nations when formal political engagement faces challenges. ‘Sportspersons, writers, poets – they act as ambassadors of goodwill. That is why such matters should be handled with sensitivity.’