Chandigarh, JAN 3: The Board of Control for Cricket in India has directed Kolkata Knight Riders to release Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman from its squad ahead of the 2026 Indian Premier League season, citing the prevailing situation between the two countries.
The BCCI said the franchise would be permitted to sign a replacement player if it chooses to do so.
“The BCCI has asked Kolkata Knight Riders to release Mustafizur Rahman from its squad. They can ask for a replacement if needed, and upon request, the BCCI will allow a replacement player,” BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia told PTI on Saturday.
Rahman, 30, was bought by KKR for Rs 9.20 crore at the IPL auction last month after a bidding contest involving Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals. His base price was Rs 2 crore. The upcoming season was set to be his first with the three-time IPL champions.
The decision comes amid mounting political pressure over the participation of a Bangladeshi player in the league following the recent killing of a Hindu man in Bangladesh and India’s repeated expressions of concern over the safety of minorities there.
KKR, co-owned by actor Shah Rukh Khan, found itself drawn into the controversy, with several political leaders questioning the franchise’s decision to sign Rahman and citing alleged atrocities against Hindus in Bangladesh.
Rahman has featured in eight IPL seasons since making his debut in 2016, missing only the 2019 and 2020 editions. He has previously played for Sunrisers Hyderabad, Mumbai Indians, Delhi Capitals, Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals.
The development comes against the backdrop of uncertain bilateral cricket ties. India and Bangladesh postponed a white-ball series last year, and while the Bangladesh Cricket Board said on Friday that the series would be held in September, the BCCI has not confirmed its participation.
The relationship between the two countries deteriorated after the ouster of Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who fled to India in August last year following mass protests. She was later sentenced to death in absentia by a tribunal for her alleged role in a violent crackdown that killed several students.
Diplomatic tensions have since escalated, with Dhaka summoning Indian High Commissioner Pranay Verma multiple times, while India summoned Bangladesh High Commissioner Reaz Hamidullah to convey concerns over security conditions.
