Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has directed Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) Bangladesh to release left-arm fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman from their squad for Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026The decision was informed to the franchises on Saturday and is believed to be linked to the recent developments in Bangladesh, which have raised widespread sensitivities, prompting the board to intervene ahead of the upcoming season,
BCCI directs KKR to release Mustafizur Rahman
bcci secretary Devjit Saikia It has been confirmed that the governing body has asked KKR to move on from the Bangladesh international and has also assured the franchise that it will be allowed to sign a replacement. The board’s stance ensures that KKR will leave no stone unturned in preparing its squad for IPL 2026, even if the release was not motivated by cricket-related reasons.
According to Saikia, the directive was issued after reviewing the current situation, with the BCCI keen to act decisively to avoid any further complications. Although the board has not publicly set any deadline, it is expected that KKR will soon complete the formalities and begin the process of identifying a replacement foreign player.
“Due to the recent developments going on all around, BCCI has directed the franchise KKR to release one of their players, Mustafizur Rahman of Bangladesh, from their team and BCCI has also said that if they ask for any replacement, BCCI is going to allow that replacement.” Saikia was quoted as saying by ANI.
Buying in high-profile auction sparks debate
Mustafizur was one of KKR’s key acquisitions in the IPL mini-auction held in Abu Dhabi, where the franchise acquired him for Rs 9.20 crore after a competitive bidding. Chennai Super Kings (CSK)The fast bowler’s international experience and his reputation for being a deceptive cutter made him an attractive option for the defending champions, especially for matches on slow surfaces,
However, the signing soon became a topic of discussion beyond cricket. Over the past few days, KKR and their ownership group, including co-owners Shahrukh KhanFaced criticism from a section of fans on social media. Reaction focused on the timing of the move, given the tense atmosphere surrounding India-Bangladesh relations, which ultimately caught the attention of the BCCI.
Also read: IPL 2026: KKR may sign 3 players to replace Mustafizur Rahman if he misses out
No clarity yet on India’s tour of Bangladesh
With Mustafizur set to exit, KKR’s think tank will now re-evaluate its overseas combination. The franchise may be looking for a fast bowler who can provide similar skills – variety at the death and experience in pressure situations – while also fitting into the team’s broader plans for the season.
BCCI’s assurance on allowing replacements provides flexibility to KKR, whether they want to dip into the unsold pool or explore other available options. From the league’s perspective, the move reinforces the board’s intention to keep the IPL as far away from off-field turmoil as possible.
Interestingly, the BCCI has remained silent on India’s scheduled white-ball tour of Bangladesh at the end of the year. Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) It was recently announced that India will play three ODIs and three T20 matches in September 2026, with the team expected to reach Dhaka on August 28. The series was earlier postponed due to unrest in the country.
Also read: Jhanvi Mehta reveals why KKR spent Rs 18 crore on Mathisha Pathirana in IPL 2026 auction
