The first ODI between India and New Zealand is being played in Vadodara, but the atmosphere off the field is quite tense.
The reason is a major controversy related to IPL 2026, which has strained relations between the BCCI and the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB).
Amidst this, the presence of a Bangladeshi umpire in this match has become a topic of discussion.
Mustafizur Rahman Controversy and Rising Tensions
In the IPL 2026 mini-auction, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) bought Bangladeshi fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman for Rs 9.2 crore, but he was later dropped from the team.
This decision sparked a strong reaction in Bangladesh. Bangladesh banned the broadcast of the IPL, which is the first time this has happened since the league started in 2008.
The matter didn’t end there. The BCB also refused to send its team to the upcoming T20 World Cup in India. The board clearly stated that this decision was taken for security reasons.
A statement issued by the BCB said, “following a thorough assessment of the prevailing situation and the growing concerns regarding the safety and security of the Bangladesh contingent in India.” The BCB also stated that it is still awaiting a response from the ICC.
Who is Sharfuddoula in the India vs New Zealand ODI?
Amidst this tension, Bangladeshi umpire Sharfuddoula is officiating as the TV umpire in the first India vs New Zealand ODI.
Sharfuddoula was born in Dhaka and is a well-known name in international cricket. He has officiated in 32 Tests, 118 ODIs, 75 T20Is, 17 Women’s ODIs, and 28 Women’s T20Is so far.
In 2024, he became the second Bangladeshi umpire to stand as a neutral umpire during the Brisbane Test between Australia and West Indies. He was formerly a left-arm spinner and also represented Bangladesh in the ICC Trophy in 1994. In March 2024, he was included in the ICC Elite Panel of Umpires, becoming the first Bangladeshi to achieve this distinction.
Who appoints umpires for ODI matches?
According to ICC rules, the appointment of umpires for ODI matches follows a specific procedure. The ICC appoints a neutral umpire, who is not from the country of either of the teams playing the match.
In addition, the home board selects an umpire from its own panel. If the Decision Review System (DRS) is being used in the match, the ICC also appoints a third umpire, who handles decisions related to DRS.
Therefore, despite the controversies, Sharafuddaula’s presence is considered completely valid under ICC rules, and the match is proceeding as scheduled.
