The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has dropped Indian presenter Ridhima Pathak from the ongoing Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), citing the changing situation arising from recent political and diplomatic tensions between Bangladesh and India.
According to board sources, the decision to remove Pathak from the BPL presentation panel was taken after reviewing the evolving circumstances linked to bilateral relations between the two neighboring countries.
The move is being described as a precautionary step in light of the prevailing regional sensitivities.
However, Ridhima Pathak has clarified that her withdrawal from the ongoing BPL was a personal decision, amid reports linking her exit to regional political and diplomatic tensions.
In a statement shared on social media, Pathak said she chose to step away from the BPL on her own.
“For me, my nation comes first, and I consider cricket as an assignment,” she stated.
She further said that she has always served the game of cricket with honesty, respect and passion, adding that she will continue to remain associated with the sport with the same spirit.
Earlier this season, the BCB had introduced an initiative to bring greater international diversity to BPL commentary and presentation.
As part of the plan, Indian presenter Ridhima Pathak was hosting the league alongside Pakistan’s popular television personality Zainab Abbas.
The commentary panel also featured former Pakistan captain and ex-PCB chairman Ramiz Raja, along with England cricket legend Darren Gough.
However, sources say the board was compelled to revise its original strategy due to the current geopolitical environment.
The development underscores how off-field political dynamics continue to influence sporting events in the region.
Reporter: Salim Reza