BCCI asks KKR to release Mustafizur Rahman ahead of IPL 2026 amid broader developments

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has instructed Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to release Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman from their squad for the upcoming Indian Premier League 2026, marking a rare mid-cycle intervention by the cricket board.

The directive was confirmed on Saturday by BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia, who said the decision was taken in view of recent developments at a broader level.

Official confirmation from BCCI

Speaking to a news agency, Devajit Saikia said the board had formally communicated its decision to the franchise.

The BCCI has also clarified that KKR will be permitted to sign a replacement player if the franchise chooses to do so.

No specific operational details were disclosed, but officials indicated the decision was not linked to cricketing performance.

Background of the KKR signing

KKR had secured Mustafizur Rahman during the IPL mini-auction in Abu Dhabi for ₹9.20 crore, following a competitive bidding contest with Chennai Super Kings.

The signing quickly drew attention beyond cricket circles due to the sensitive diplomatic climate between India and Bangladesh.

Political reactions and public pressure

Over the past few days, KKR and co-owner Shah Rukh Khan faced criticism from leaders associated with the BJP and Shiv Sena, who questioned the decision to sign a Bangladesh player amid rising tensions.

These reactions intensified after the death of Dipu Chandra Das in Mymensingh last month, an incident that further strained bilateral relations. Several leaders publicly argued that franchises should consider national sentiment while making overseas signings.

The growing political discourse significantly amplified pressure on the franchise and the league.

Player availability and prior clearance

Following his signing, Mustafizur Rahman had received a no-objection certificate from the Bangladesh Cricket Board, allowing him to skip Bangladesh’s home series against New Zealand to participate fully in IPL 2026.

That clearance now stands irrelevant following the BCCI’s directive.

Mustafizur Rahman’s IPL record

The left-arm pacer has been a regular presence in the league over the years.

Key IPL numbers:
• 60 IPL matches
• 65 wickets
• Represented Sunrisers Hyderabad, Mumbai Indians, Rajasthan Royals, Delhi Capitals, Chennai Super Kings, and KKR

In IPL 2025, he turned out for Delhi Capitals as a replacement player, playing three matches and taking four wickets.