ZCZC
BSP-16
CRICKET-ROYALS-MUSTA
Rajasthan won’t force Mustafizur to play IPL
DHAKA, March 4, 2021 (BSS)- Ranjit Barthakur, the chairman of Indian
Premier League (IPL) franchise Rajasthan Royals, said his team would not
force Mustafizur Rahman to play for them in the cash-rich tournament,
considering Bangladesh’s interests.
The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has already said it will not be
stingy in giving a no-objection letter to the left-arm pacer. But Mustafiz is
looking after the interests of the country first. He has made it clear that
if he is called up for the upcoming Sri Lanka series, he will play for the
country instead of playing in the IPL. However, if the team management does
not include him in the team, then he will play in the IPL.
“We have roped in Fizz (Mustafizur Rahman) in our squad, we have bid for
him,” he said. “Maybe he will play but his responsibility to the country
comes first, then Rajasthan Royals. So let’s see what happens. I think he
will be called up for the national team, if that is not the case then we are
here for him.”
Barthakur also said that they are very interested in opening a fan base
of Rajasthan Royals in Bangladesh.
“One thing is, we have a very good fan base in this country. After
Kolkata Knight Riders and Chennai Super Kings, our fan base is at number
three here. Therefore we want to increase our fan base in Bangladesh and
North-East India,” he added.
The Rajasthan Royals delegation visited the Sher-e-Bangla National
Cricket Stadium in Mirpur today. BCB officials who were aware of their visit
said the IPL franchise is quite pleased to see the facilities of the stadium.
BSS/SMP/IJ/1915 hrs