Delhi Capitals Face Backlash Over Mustafizur Rahman Signing for IPL 2025
| 2025-05-15
Delhi Capitals’ replacement of Jake Fraser-McGurk with Bangladesh's Mustafizur Rahman sparks #BoycottDelhiCapitals trend ahead of IPL 2025 resumption. (Image: @Mustafiz90)
Delhi Capitals’ replacement of Jake Fraser-McGurk with Bangladesh's Mustafizur Rahman sparks #BoycottDelhiCapitals trend ahead of IPL 2025 resumption.
The Delhi Capitals’ decision to sign Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman as a mid-season replacement for Australian batter Jake Fraser-McGurk has triggered controversy online, with #BoycottDelhiCapitals trending ahead of the Indian Premier League’s (IPL) resumption on 17 May.
The Delhi Capitals, co-owned by JSW and GMR, confirmed on 15 May that Bangladesh left-arm pacer Mustafizur Rahman would replace Australian opener Jake Fraser-McGurk for the remainder of the IPL 2025 season. Fraser-McGurk, one of the breakout stars of the previous edition, has been ruled out due to personal reasons.
However, the move has sparked widespread criticism on social media, with fans using the hashtag #BoycottDelhiCapitals to express their displeasure. Critics have cited geopolitical tensions and past controversies involving Bangladesh as the basis for their objections.
The online backlash intensified after Rahman initially posted that he would not participate in the IPL, opting instead to represent Bangladesh in a bilateral One Day International (ODI) series against the United Arab Emirates. The Delhi Capitals later clarified that Rahman would join the squad after completing national duties, but the clarification did little to stem the tide of criticism.
Geopolitical Sentiment Fuels Reaction
A significant portion of the backlash stems from ongoing regional tensions and recent diplomatic strains between India and neighbouring countries. Some users accused the franchise of being insensitive to national sentiment, referencing Bangladesh’s perceived alignment with Pakistan during recent geopolitical developments, as well as past controversies involving social media content targeting Indian cricket icons.
One widely shared post referenced a graphic that previously surfaced online, which depicted a disrespectful portrayal of former Indian captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni. Others cited concerns over the treatment of Hindu minorities in Bangladesh as justification for opposing the inclusion of a Bangladeshi player in India’s premier cricket tournament.
“Franchises must consider public sentiment when signing foreign players,” one post on X (formerly Twitter) read. “This is not just cricket—it’s about national respect.”
Delhi Capitals' Performance and Playoff Prospects
Despite the controversy, Delhi Capitals remain firmly in contention for a place in the IPL 2025 playoffs. As of 15 May, the team is ranked fifth on the points table, with 13 points from 11 matches, including six wins and four losses.
With only three league matches remaining, the team must win at least two to secure a playoff berth. Rahman’s inclusion is seen as a tactical step to strengthen the team’s bowling options, especially in light of Australian pacer Mitchell Starc’s uncertain availability.
Rahman, 29, brings considerable T20 experience, having taken 61 wickets in 57 IPL appearances since his debut in 2016. He previously played for Delhi Capitals during the 2022 and 2023 seasons, although his impact was mixed. He secured eight wickets at an economy rate of 7.62 in 2022 but made only two appearances in 2023.
BCCI Policy Under Scrutiny
The controversy has also raised questions about the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)’s revised replacement rules. Following the mid-season suspension of IPL 2025 on 9 May—prompted by heightened India-Pakistan tensions—the BCCI allowed franchises to make temporary player substitutions.
While the rule aimed to address practical challenges posed by the departure of several overseas players, critics argue that the board should have applied more discretion in cases involving players from nations with strained diplomatic ties to India.
“The IPL is more than a cricket league—it’s a global brand that represents India,” said one social media user. “The BCCI should ensure that replacements align with public expectations and national interests.”
Balancing Sport and Sentiment
The IPL, one of the world’s most-watched cricket leagues, regularly attracts players from across the globe. While the tournament is generally seen as a celebration of international talent, it has at times found itself at the intersection of sport and politics.
This year’s backlash reflects broader anxieties over national identity, diplomatic posturing, and the role of public opinion in franchise decision-making. Similar controversies have emerged in the past, especially during periods of heightened tension between India and neighbouring countries.
For now, Delhi Capitals will aim to refocus on on-field performance, hoping that strategic moves like Rahman’s signing will help secure a playoff berth. However, the wider conversation about foreign player eligibility and fan sentiment is likely to persist as IPL 2025 moves into its final stages.
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