Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have released the Bangladeshi fast bowler, Mustafizur Rahman, from their squad. This decision came following a specific directive from the Indian Cricket Control Board (BCCI) to release Mustafizur, with KKR acting accordingly. Mustafizur was acquired during last month's IPL mini-auction by KKR for a staggering 9.20 crore INR, marking the highest bid in IPL history for this 30-year-old pacer, amidst fierce bidding wars with Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Delhi Capitals (DC).
In an official statement by Kolkata Knight Riders, it was confirmed, 'KKR affirms that the BCCI/IPL, as the regulatory body of the IPL, instructed the franchise to release Mustafizur Rahman prior to the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season.'
The statement further noted, 'Following all the necessary procedures and consultations per BCCI's instructions, the decision to release was finalized. According to IPL regulations, BCCI has permitted Kolkata Knight Riders to include a replacement player, with further details about this to be shared in due course.'
Criticism Faced by Shah Rukh Khan
Following the incidents of violence against Hindus in Bangladesh, India expressed serious concern over the safety of minorities in the neighboring country. Consequently, pressure mounted on the BCCI regarding Mustafizur Rahman's participation in IPL 2026. Political rhetoric intensified on this issue, with some ruling party leaders questioning the inclusion of Bangladeshi players in the current circumstances, extending criticism to KKR co-owner and Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan.
Having participated in eight IPL seasons since 2016, Mustafizur Rahman missed only the 2019 and 2020 tournaments. He has represented teams like Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), Mumbai Indians (MI), Delhi Capitals, Chennai Super Kings, and Rajasthan Royals (RR). Initially, IPL 2026 was supposed to offer him his first opportunity to don KKR's jersey, but that's now off the table.
In recent times, relations between both nations have grown more tense. A proposed white-ball bilateral series between India and Bangladesh was postponed last year. While the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) mentioned on Friday that this series would occur in September in Bangladesh, the BCCI has not yet confirmed any schedule, making its occurrence uncertain given the current political climate.
