Indian sports presenter Ridhima Pathak has firmly denied reports claiming that she was dropped from her hosting duties at the ongoing Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) 2025–26. Taking to Instagram on Wednesday (January 7), Pathak clarified that stepping away from the tournament was a personal decision and not one enforced by the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), as suggested by sections of the media.

In a strongly worded yet dignified statement that quickly went viral, Pathak addressed the speculation head-on and stressed that her choice was guided by personal principles rather than professional compulsion. She underlined that national interest and integrity mattered more to her than any single assignment.

“Truth matters. 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,” Ridhima Pathak wrote, adding that her respect for the game of cricket goes well beyond one tournament or role.

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The experienced presenter, who has been a familiar face on Indian broadcasts with Star Sports and Sony Sports, also reiterated her long-standing commitment to cricket. She emphasised that her values of honesty, clarity and respect for the sport remain unchanged, regardless of the situation.

“I’ve been privileged to serve this sport for years with honesty, respect and passion. That won’t change. Cricket deserves truth. Period,” she added, while also thanking fans and well-wishers for their overwhelming support during the controversy.

Sports anchor Ridhima Pathak sets the record straight. She has opted out of Bangladesh Premier League. Not been sacked. Those filthy Kanglus don’t have the aukaat to throw her out. I’m just surprised what was she even doing in that bhikhari tournament tbh. pic.twitter.com/iNJHgzjEu4

— J.B Hazarika (@Bharadwaj_Joy) January 7, 2026

Pathak’s clarification came hours after reports in Bangladeshi media claimed that the BCB had removed her from the BPL hosting panel. She was co-hosting the tournament alongside Pakistan presenter Zainab Abbas and had been part of the broadcast team since the start of the season.

The development has unfolded against a tense backdrop in Bangladesh cricket circles. On Tuesday night, a report by ESPNCricinfo revealed that the International Cricket Council (ICC) had rejected Bangladesh’s request to move their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 matches out of India, citing security concerns.

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The ICC reportedly informed the BCB that Bangladesh would need to travel to India for the tournament or risk forfeiting points. While the two issues are separate, the timing has fuelled widespread discussion on social media. For her part, Ridhima Pathak has drawn a clear line, choosing transparency and principle over speculation, and making it clear that her decision was entirely her own.