Sponsorship cloud looms over Bangladesh cricketers amid India tensions

Bangladesh cricket could be heading toward a significant financial jolt as leading Indian sports equipment maker SG is unlikely to renew its sponsorship deals with several Bangladeshi players, according to reports. The development comes against the backdrop of growing cricketing and diplomatic friction between India and Bangladesh.

The situation reportedly escalated after IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders released Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman, a move said to have followed a directive from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). In response, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) approached the International Cricket Council (ICC) with a request to relocate Bangladesh’s matches in the 2026 T20 World Cup from India to Sri Lanka, citing security concerns.

SG currently sponsors several prominent Bangladesh players, including skipper Litton Das, along with Yasir Rabbi and Mominul Haque. While no official communication has been sent to the players yet, their representatives have indicated that the Indian manufacturer is unlikely to extend its association.

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A Bangladeshi cricketer, speaking anonymously to telecomasia.net, said the signs suggest sponsorship changes could be imminent. Industry insiders believe SG’s decision could trigger a wider pullback, with other brands also reconsidering their involvement with Bangladesh players.

The BCB’s appeal to the ICC followed an emergency meeting held on January 4, after which it formally sought changes to its World Cup schedule. The ICC is yet to take a final call on the request.