The Board of Control for Cricket in India has directed the Kolkata Knight Riders to release Bangladesh left arm pacer Mustafizur Rahman from their squad ahead of the Indian Premier League 2026 season.
Confirming the decision, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia said the move followed recent developments in the region and added that the franchise would be permitted to sign a replacement once Rahman is released. The directive comes amid heightened political and public scrutiny surrounding the participation of Bangladeshi players in Indian sporting leagues.
Rahman had been acquired by KKR for ₹9.20 crore at the mini auction, following a competitive bidding process involving multiple franchises. The signing soon became a flashpoint, drawing criticism from political figures who questioned the timing of the move against the backdrop of strained India Bangladesh relations and reports of violence against Hindus in Bangladesh.
The controversy also placed KKR co owner Shah Rukh Khan in the spotlight, with sharp reactions from leaders affiliated with the BJP and Shiv Sena. Calls for Rahman&rsquo;s removal intensified after the killing of Dipu Chandra Das in Mymensingh and other reported incidents targeting Hindu minorities in Bangladesh.
While announcing the decision on Rahman, the BCCI did not comment on India&rsquo;s scheduled tour of Bangladesh later in 2026, which includes three ODIs and three T20Is. The itinerary, announced by the Bangladesh Cricket Board, marks the rescheduling of a series that was earlier deferred due to unrest.
Rahman&rsquo;s exit from KKR brings a sudden pause to his IPL journey. The left arm pacer has featured in 60 matches across seasons, taking 65 wickets. He has previously represented Sunrisers Hyderabad, Mumbai Indians, Rajasthan Royals, Delhi Capitals and Chennai Super Kings. Most recently, he appeared for Delhi Capitals as a replacement player, claiming four wickets in three matches.
With the BCCI opening the door for a replacement signing, KKR are expected to move quickly to rebalance their squad as preparations for IPL 2026 gather pace.

BCCI asks KKR to release Mustafizur Rahman

Decision cites regional tensions as KKR cleared to sign a replacement for IPL 2026

BCCI asks KKR to release Mustafizur Rahman

Decision cites regional tensions as KKR cleared to sign a replacement for IPL 2026

January 3, 2026 | 19:17 IST