An interesting development has emerged at a time when relations between the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) remain strained. Bangladeshi umpire Sharfuddoula Ibne Shaheed Saikat has been appointed as the third umpire for the first ODI between India and New Zealand, sparking fresh discussion in cricketing circles.
Background of the controversy
The appointment comes in the backdrop of recent tensions triggered by the IPL 2026 auction. Kolkata Knight Riders bought Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman for ₹9.2 crore. However, following controversy related to attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh, KKR reportedly dropped the player on the advice of the BCCI.
As a result, the Bangladesh government reacted strongly and banned the broadcast of the IPL in the country. Moreover, citing security concerns, it urged the ICC to move matches of the upcoming T20 World Cup in February from India to Sri Lanka. These developments further deepened the strain between the cricket boards of the two nations.
Sharfuddoula’s role in the first ODI
Amid these sensitive circumstances, Sharfuddoula has been appointed as the third umpire for the first ODI between India and New Zealand, which is being played in Vadodara, Gujarat. According to ICC regulations, neutral umpires from outside the participating nations must officiate in international series. Consequently, Sharfuddoula’s inclusion follows standard ICC protocol.
Importantly, Sharfuddoula is no stranger to international officiating. In March 2024, he became the first Bangladeshi umpire to be inducted into the ICC Elite Panel. Since then, he has officiated in several high-profile international matches.
Focus on professionalism despite tensions
While political and administrative tensions continue between the two boards, the ICC’s decision highlights its commitment to neutrality and professionalism. Cricket officials have emphasized that umpiring appointments remain independent of bilateral disputes.
As the India–New Zealand series progresses, all eyes will remain on the on-field action. Nevertheless, Sharfuddoula’s presence has added an unexpected layer of intrigue to the opening ODI.
