The BCCI has asked Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to release Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman from their IPL 2026 squad. The decision comes amid diplomatic tensions and civil unrest in Bangladesh, which triggered political and public pressure in India.
“Amid ongoing recent developments, the BCCI has directed the KKR franchise to release their Bangladeshi player, Mustafizur Rahman, from the squad,” Saikia told news agency ANI. He added that the BCCI will approve any replacement player if the team requests one.
KKR had bought Mustafizur for a record ₹9.20 crore, making him the most expensive Bangladeshi player in IPL history. Losing him leaves a gap in their bowling attack, especially in death overs, and disrupts their overseas player balance.
The BCCI has assured KKR that a replacement player will be allowed, but it is unclear if the ₹9.20 crore will be refunded for the auction purse.
Mustafizur Rahman: KKR’s Record Signing and IPL 2026 Controversy
KKR had acquired Mustafizur Rahman in the Abu Dhabi mini-auction for ₹9.20 crore after an intense bidding war with Chennai Super Kings. His signing sparked criticism from BJP and Shiv Sena leaders, who argued national sentiments should have been considered due to rising tensions between India and Bangladesh following violent incidents against Hindus, including the death of Dipu Chandra Das in Mymensingh. Shah Rukh Khan, co-owner of KKR, faced strong political backlash and was called a “traitor” by some leaders.
Rahman had previously received a no-objection certificate from the Bangladesh Cricket Board to participate in the IPL, skipping a home series against New Zealand. In IPL 2025, he played three matches for Delhi Capitals, taking four wickets. Overall, he has appeared in 60 IPL matches, taking 65 wickets, and has represented Sunrisers Hyderabad, Mumbai Indians, Rajasthan Royals, Delhi Capitals, and Chennai Super Kings.
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