Sporting relations between India and Bangladesh appear to have strained further following reports that the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) removed Indian presenter Ridhima Pathak from the hosting panel of the ongoing Bangladesh Premier League (BPL).

The development was widely seen as another consequence of the escalating diplomatic and sporting tensions between the two countries. However, Pathak has denied these claims, clarifying that she chose to step away from the T20 league voluntarily, citing the prevailing political climate as the reason behind her decision.

"In the last few hours, there's been a narrative suggesting I was 'dropped' from the BPL. That is not true. I made a personal decision to opt out. For me, my nation comes first-always. And I value the game of cricket far beyond any single assignment. I've been privileged to serve this sport for years with honesty, respect, and passion. That won't change. I'll continue to stand for integrity, for clarity, and for the spirit of the game. Thank you to everyone who reached out with support. Your messages mean more than you know. Cricket deserves truth. Period. No further comments from my side,” wrote Pathak on Instagram.

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