KKR releases Mustafizur Rahman after BCCI's directive, to sign in a replacement

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have officially confirmed the release of Bangladesh's premier fast bowler, Mustafizur Rahman, ahead of the 2026 IPL season. In a formal statement issued on Saturday, the franchise clarified that the decision followed a specific directive from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). The move comes just weeks after KKR secured the left-arm pacer for a staggering ₹9.20 crore in the December 2025 mini-auction, winning an intense bidding war against Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals.

BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed the development, citing the "recent developments all across" as the rationale for the intervention. While the board did not explicitly detail the political nuances in the official statement, the decision is widely seen as a response to the escalating diplomatic friction between India and Bangladesh. Public and political outrage had intensified following reports of violence against minorities in Bangladesh, including the recent killing of a Hindu man, prompting calls for a boycott of Bangladeshi athletes in Indian leagues.

The controversy had even reached a personal level, with KKR co-owner Shah Rukh Khan facing criticism from various political quarters for the franchise's decision to bid for a Bangladeshi player amidst the ongoing crisis. The BCCI’s instruction is viewed as a preventive measure to avoid potential security issues and public protests during IPL matches, particularly in Kolkata. Saikia assured KKR that they would be permitted to sign a replacement player to fill the gap in their overseas bowling department.