IPL 2026: Mustafizur Rahman receives threat message as Ujjain religious leaders issue pitch invasion warning

Ahead of the Indian Premier League 2026, Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman has been at the centre of a major controversy following threats issued by religious leaders in Ujjain. The warnings come amid rising anger in India over recent violent attacks on members of the Hindu minority in Bangladesh.

Mustafizur, who was bought by Kolkata Knight Riders for INR 9.20 crore at the IPL 2026 mini-auction in Abu Dhabi, is the only Bangladeshi cricketer selected this season. However, his inclusion has triggered strong backlash, including calls for a boycott of KKR and threats of pitch invasions during IPL matches if he is allowed to take the field.

Meanwhile, KKR’s decision to sign Mustafizur has been viewed by some groups as insensitive. Social media platforms have been flooded with posts criticising both the franchise and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for allowing Bangladeshi players to participate in the league.

Several sibyls in Ujjain, including Mahavir Nath, the chief priest of the Rinmukteshwar Mahadev Temple, issued strong warnings, stating that ascetic groups could attempt to storm stadiums and disrupt matches involving the Bangladeshi pacer. They accused Indian authorities of ignoring the persecution of Hindus in Bangladesh while continuing sporting ties.

The religious leaders also threatened to vandalise pitches if Mustafizur is permitted to play, raising serious security concerns for IPL organisers. Other seer groups have shared similar sentiments. The controversy presents a significant challenge for the BCCI and IPL authorities, particularly in terms of security planning. With KKR scheduled to play matches across multiple states, the risk of protests or disruptions has become a big issue.

There is also uncertainty around Mustafizur’s availability, as Bangladesh’s cricket board has indicated that national duties could limit his participation during the early phase of IPL 2026. In light of the current unrest, there is speculation that KKR may consider resting the pacer for the initial matches to ease tensions.