No immediate decision, review to follow discussions with cricket board
Bangladesh’s government is set to reassess its stance on the Indian Premier League (IPL) broadcast ban, with State Minister for Youth and Sports Aminul Haque confirming that a decision will only be taken after internal discussions following the Eid holidays.
Speaking to Cricbuzz on Sunday, Haque said the matter has not yet been formally reviewed and will require consultation with the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) before any conclusion is reached.
“We have not thought about it as yet. After the vacation ends, we will have to discuss it with the cricket board and try to figure out the actual picture, and after knowing everything, we will take a decision,” he said.
Government emphasises separation of sport and politics
While the current restriction remains in place, Haque indicated that the broader approach would be guided by the principle of keeping sporting matters independent of political considerations, alongside maintaining stable relations with India.
“We want to develop a friendly relationship (with India), and there shouldn’t be any other issue. Sports shouldn’t be politicised. We have to know why it (IPL) was closed (broadcasting in Bangladesh), and later we can make a decision,” he added.
Ban introduced under previous decision amid wider concerns
The IPL broadcast ban in Bangladesh was implemented earlier under the Professor Yunus-led government. The move came during a period when Bangladesh cricket also faced repercussions linked to its decision not to participate in a T20 World Cup, citing security concerns over playing in India.
Next steps dependent on post-Eid consultations
Any change in policy is expected to depend on the outcome of discussions between government authorities and the BCB once the Eid break concludes.
For now, the government has maintained that a full understanding of the circumstances behind the existing ban will be required before determining whether it should remain in place or be lifted.
