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and our procurement are based on logical grounds; this will not affect those areas.
“The beginning was not from Bangladesh. Mustafizur is a fine, world-famous cricketer. Those who picked him did so after a thorough evaluation; they didn’t take him out of charity. It is very unfortunate that they would suddenly stop [his participation].”
Salehuddin said sports should ideally remain separate from political friction. “Even during Hitler’s time, the Olympics took place. Even those who hated Hitler attended. I think what happened here was driven by emotion. If both sides reconsider, a solution can be reached.”
Echoing similar views, Energy Adviser Fouzul Kabir Khan said the government’s stance was proportionate and justified, describing it as a natural reaction to the initial action taken by the other side.
“There are always an action and a reaction. We’ve to be careful so that no one goes overboard. When a Bangladeshi player is called and then suddenly withdrawn, a response is expected. I believe the response was proper, robust, and appropriate.”
He added that Bangladesh’s position on issues such as IPL broadcasting and the discussion around venue changes for upcoming international tournaments sent a clear but measured signal.
“This response is not only justified but also makes the other side reflect,” the energy adviser said, adding that voices within India itself have expressed concern over politicising sports.
“We hope that good sense will prevail from the side where this issue originated. Cricket should continue, and so should our economic and trade relations,” he added.
Man dies
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BSF camp, he was provided with clothes and food. He reportedly developed convulsions and was taken to a hospital, where doctors declared him dead, BSF told BGB.
Based on information from BSF, Robiul’s death is suspected to be from illness; the postmortem report would determine the exact cause of death, Mostafizur said.
Robiul’s body bore some injuries, which might have been from baton blows.
“After receiving the written postmortem report, we will lodge a formal written protest with the BSF,” he added.