Bangladesh cricketers may soon have to change their bat sponsors as leading Indian sports manufacturer SG has decided not to continue its association, amid rising cricketing and diplomatic tensions between the two neighboring nations.
Tensions Escalate
The situation began when IPL team Kolkata Knight Riders released Bangladesh’s premier bowler Mustafizur Rehman after a directive from the BCCI. Following this, the Bangladesh Cricket Board refused to grant a no-objection certificate to Mustafizur for playing in the IPL. Additionally, it requested the ICC to shift its matches in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026, scheduled to start on 7th February, from India to Sri Lanka, citing security concerns.
Impact on Sponsorships
SG currently sponsors several top Bangladeshi players, including captain Litton Das, Yasir Rabbi, and Mominul Haque. While the players have not been officially notified about SG’s decision not to renew the contract, their agents have indicated that changes may be imminent.
“It looks like that is likely to be the case in the coming days,” a Bangladeshi cricketer was quoted as saying by www.telecomasia.net.
SG’s decision could negatively impact the Bangladesh sports industry, prompting other manufacturers to reconsider their sponsorships. “I think other manufacturers also might opt not to sponsor our cricketers,” a source involved in player sponsorships told www.telecomasia.net.
BCB’s Response
The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) approached the ICC after holding an emergency meeting on January 4, formally requesting that Bangladesh’s fixtures be moved for the safety of players and officials.
As the ICC’s decision on shifting Bangladesh’s matches to Sri Lanka for the T20 World Cup 2026 remains pending, the Asian team is currently set to play in Group C of the tournament. Bangladesh is scheduled to face the West Indies, Italy, and England in Kolkata on February 7, 9, and 14, respectively, before concluding the group stage against Nepal in Mumbai on February 17.