Bangladesh's star fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman will miss the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. Mustafizur was released from the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) team following the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) instructions. His exit has sparked controversy in Bangladesh, leading to widespread criticism of the decision.
The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has refused to send their national team to India for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026. Instead, BCB is planning to relocate their matches to Sri Lanka and has communicated this to the International Cricket Council (ICC). It remains to be seen how the ICC responds.
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Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) released Mustafizur Rahman on BCCI's directive, but there is no likelihood of financial compensation for the Bangladeshi bowler. KKR acquired Mustafizur for INR 9.20 crore at the IPL auction, with Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Delhi Capitals (DC) also partaking in the bidding.
BCCI has not clarified the reasons for his release, merely stating it was due to 'recent developments'. Notably, Mustafizur did not withdraw from the IPL voluntarily, nor is there any allegation of misconduct against him. Despite this, his contract was terminated.
Insurance on Salary, But with Conditions
The IPL provides insurance for players' salaries, but foreign players are compensated only in case of injury or problems during the tournament, typically covering up to fifty percent. Mustafizur's situation does not involve injury or cricket-related issues, thus not fitting the insurance clause, leaving KKR without a legal obligation to compensate him.
Will Mustafizur Appeal to the CAS?
According to PTI sources, Mustafizur has the option of pursuing legal action, but the IPL falls under Indian law, and no foreign player generally opts for court proceedings or Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) as legal processes are lengthy and complex. Meanwhile, the BCB withdrew Mustafizur's NOC, further weakening his stance.
BCB's request to relocate their ICC T20 World Cup matches to Sri Lanka is perceived as retaliatory. Sources also indicate that the political situation between India and Bangladesh significantly influences this affair. Given the changing circumstances, neither players nor boards are inclined to engage in legal conflicts.
