Tensions rise as cricket faces political fallout
As diplomatic strain seeps into the cricketing world, the spotlight has turned to Indian sports presenter Ridhima Pathak’s sudden exit from the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL). The decision comes in the wake of escalating tensions between India and Bangladesh — sparked by the removal of Bangladeshi pacer Mustafizur Rahman from the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) squad and the subsequent response from the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), including a broadcast ban on the IPL within its territory.
Amid this environment, reports surfaced in Bangladeshi media claiming that Pathak had been dropped from the BPL’s presentation panel as part of a broader fallout. The BCB offered no formal explanation but cited a “changed situation” behind the decision.
Ridhima Pathak sets the record straight
Ridhima Pathak, however, directly addressed the growing speculation in a statement posted on Instagram — asserting that she had not been removed, but had chosen to step away from the assignment herself.
“In the last few hours, there’s been a narrative suggesting I was ‘dropped’ from the BPL. That is not true. I made a personal decision to opt out. For me, my nation comes first—always. And I value the game of cricket far beyond any single assignment. I’ve been privileged to serve this sport for years with honesty, respect, and passion. That won’t change. I’ll continue to stand for integrity, for clarity, and for the spirit of the game,” she said.
Her post pushed back firmly against suggestions of political retaliation or a forced ouster, offering a clear personal stance during a moment of rising cross-border tension.
A dignified exit amid swirling narratives
Pathak’s statement also expressed gratitude to those who offered support in recent days, closing the matter on her own terms. “Thank you to everyone who reached out with support. Your messages mean more than you know. Cricket deserves truth. Period. No further comments from my side,” she added.
