IPL 2026: BCCI directs KKR to release Mustafizur Rahman amid rising controversy

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 ahead of the 2026 Indian Premier League season, effectively ending days of uncertainty over the pacer’s future in the league.

BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia said that the decision was taken in view of “recent developments” unfolding beyond the cricketing arena, according to India Today.

“Due to the recent developments that are going on all across, BCCI has instructed the franchise KKR to release one of their players, Mustafizur Rahman of Bangladesh, from their squad,” Saikia said.

He added that the board has also permitted KKR to rope in a replacement if required.

Mustafizur was picked up by KKR for ₹9.20 crore at the IPL 2026 mini-auction in December 2025, a signing that initially generated interest purely for cricketing reasons. However, the move soon became politically sensitive, triggering objections from sections of the political spectrum and certain religious groups.

The backlash intensified against the backdrop of the recent killing of a Hindu man in Bangladesh and India’s stated concerns over the safety of minorities there, placing the spotlight on the participation of Bangladeshi cricketers in the IPL.

The controversy gathered further momentum after BJP leader Kaustav Bagchi publicly objected to Bangladeshi players featuring in IPL matches held in Kolkata. His remarks were followed by criticism from multiple quarters, with some even targeting KKR co-owner and actor Shah Rukh Khan for backing the signing at the auction.

While the BCCI refrained from directly addressing the political reactions, Saikia’s remarks indicated that the board reviewed the broader situation before stepping in. The directive to release Mustafizur is understood to be a preventive measure aimed at avoiding further complications as preparations for IPL 2026 intensify.

From a cricketing standpoint, the decision leaves KKR short of an overseas fast-bowling option. Known for his cutters and effectiveness in limited-overs cricket, Mustafizur was expected to play a significant role, especially on slower pitches. However, with the BCCI clearing the franchise to sign a replacement, KKR now has the opportunity to rework its overseas combination ahead of the new season.