Bhubaneswar: Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman, who was recently bought by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season, has been asked to be released from the franchise following a directive from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
Mustafizur, 30, was snapped up by KKR for ₹9.20 crore at the IPL players’ auction last month, well above his base price of ₹2 crore, after an intense bidding war involving Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals. The upcoming season was set to be his first with the three-time IPL champions.
Confirming the development, BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia said that the board has formally communicated its decision to the franchise.
“The BCCI has asked Kolkata Knight Riders to release Mustafizur Rahman from its squad. They may ask for a replacement if needed, and upon request, the BCCI will allow a replacement player,” Saikia told PTI on Saturday.
The decision comes against the backdrop of growing diplomatic strain between India and Bangladesh. Pressure had been mounting on the BCCI over Mustafizur’s participation in the IPL following the recent killing of a Hindu man in Bangladesh and India’s expression of concern regarding the safety of religious minorities in the neighbouring country.
The controversy has also spilled into political discourse, with some leaders from the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) questioning KKR’s decision to include the Bangladesh international under the current circumstances. Criticism was also directed at KKR co-owner and Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan, with calls for greater sensitivity given the prevailing geopolitical situation.
Mustafizur Rahman, popularly known as “The Fizz,” has been one of the most sought-after overseas pacers in IPL history. Over the years, he has represented multiple franchises, including Sunrisers Hyderabad, Mumbai Indians, Delhi Capitals, Chennai Super Kings, and Rajasthan Royals.
At the time of the auction, KKR had identified the left-arm seamer as a key addition to strengthen their bowling attack for the 2026 season. However, with the BCCI’s directive now in place, the franchise is expected to initiate the process of identifying a suitable replacement in accordance with league regulations.
-OdishaAge
