Junaid Khan Demands Removal of Mashrafi Murtaza’s Image from IPL Logo
Junaid Khan Calls for IPL to Remove Bangladeshi Representation After Mustafizur’s Exit
By Sports Desk • Jan 09, 2026
In a tweet that quickly gained traction, Junaid expressed his frustration over Mustafizur’s sudden release, describing it as “unfair to Bangladeshi players” and calling on the IPL to reconsider using Bangladeshi representations in its branding. The tweet has ignited widespread discussion among fans and analysts across South Asia.
Junaid Khan Demands Removal of Mashrafi Murtaza’s Image from IPL Logo Following Mustafizur Rahman’s Release
Former Pakistani fast bowler Junaid Khan has sparked controversy on social media by demanding that the Indian Premier League (IPL) remove the image of Bangladeshi cricket legend Mashrafi Murtaza from its official logo, following the release of Bangladesh’s star pacer Mustafizur Rahman by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).
In a tweet that quickly gained traction, Junaid expressed his frustration over Mustafizur’s sudden release, describing it as “unfair to Bangladeshi players” and calling on the IPL to reconsider using Bangladeshi representations in its branding. The tweet has ignited widespread discussion among fans and analysts across South Asia.
Background of the Controversy
Mustafizur Rahman was released by KKR despite being purchased for Rs 9.2 crore in the IPL 2026 auction, following a directive reportedly from the BCCI. The move prompted the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) to formally request the International Cricket Council (ICC) to consider shifting Bangladesh’s T20 World Cup matches from India to Sri Lanka, citing concerns over the treatment of Bangladeshi players in the IPL.
Junaid Khan’s tweet added another layer to the controversy, drawing attention to regional sensitivities and the symbolic representation of Bangladeshi players in Indian cricket leagues.
Reactions and Public Debate
Reactions to Junaid’s call have been mixed. Many fans expressed solidarity with Mustafizur and supported his stance, while others criticized it as unnecessarily provocative. Analysts note that while social media outrage highlights fan sentiment, it is unlikely to directly influence IPL branding or official decisions.
Conclusion
The episode underscores the delicate nature of player management and cross-border representation in franchise cricket. With Mustafizur Rahman reportedly joining the Pakistan Super League (PSL), attention now shifts to how leagues, fans, and cricket boards navigate professional, cultural, and diplomatic considerations in South Asian cricket.