The Board of Control for Cricket in India has directed Kolkata Knight Riders to release Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman from their squad ahead of the Indian Premier League 2026 season.
BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed the decision on Saturday while speaking to news agency ANI. He said the call was taken after recent developments.
“Due to the recent developments which are going on all across, BCCI has instructed the franchise KKR to release one of their players, Mustafizur Rahman,” Saikia said. He also added that the board will allow KKR to sign a replacement if they ask for one.
KKR had picked Mustafizur Rahman in the mini auction held in Abu Dhabi. The franchise paid INR 9.20 crore for the Bangladesh pacer. A bidding battle took place between KKR and Chennai Super Kings, with KKR winning the race.
In the past few days, KKR faced criticism for signing Mustafizur. The issue grew due to the strained situation between India and Bangladesh. Co owner Shah Rukh Khan was also targeted on social media.
With this decision, Mustafizur Rahman will not play for KKR in the upcoming IPL season.
