BCCI tells KKR to release Mustafizur after recent developments

The BCCI has instructed Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to release Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman from their squad for IPL 2026, citing “recent developments.” While the board did not explicitly clarify the reasons, the decision is widely believed to be linked to ongoing geopolitical tensions in the region.

Confirming the move, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia told news agency ANI that KKR had been asked to release Mustafizur and that the franchise would be allowed to sign a replacement if they chose to do so. Saikia, however, stopped short of detailing the exact circumstances that led to the instruction.

Over the past few days, several Indian media reports have highlighted criticism from certain spiritual and political leaders, who questioned KKR and its owner Shah Rukh Khan for including a Bangladeshi player in their squad at a time when, according to reports, Hindu minorities in Bangladesh are facing attacks. These developments are believed to have influenced the BCCI’s decision.

The timing of the move is also notable as the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) recently announced its home international season beginning in March 2026. The schedule includes a white-ball tour by India, comprising three ODIs and three T20Is, a series that was originally planned for 2025 but later postponed.

Mustafizur, who began his IPL career in 2016, has represented several franchises over the years, including Sunrisers Hyderabad, Mumbai Indians, Rajasthan Royals, Delhi Capitals and Chennai Super Kings. Across 60 IPL matches, he has taken 65 wickets, establishing himself as one of Bangladesh’s most successful bowlers in the league.

KKR had bought Mustafizur for INR 9.2 crore at the IPL auction last year as part of a major squad overhaul, also bringing in players such as Akash Deep, Matheesha Pathirana and Cameron Green. He is currently playing for Rangpur Riders in the Bangladesh Premier League. The BCB is expected to issue a statement soon, while KKR has yet to respond publicly.