The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has instructed Kolkata Knight Riders to release Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman from their squad ahead of the IPL 2026 season. The decision was confirmed by BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia, who said the franchise will be allowed to sign a replacement player if needed.
KKR had bought the 30-year-old left-arm pacer for Rs 9.20 crore at the IPL auction last month after a bidding war with Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals. It was the highest price ever paid for a Bangladeshi player in IPL history. However, recent political and diplomatic tensions involving Bangladesh have forced the Indian board to step in.
Saikia said the BCCI had initially adopted a “wait and watch” approach but later decided to act due to “recent developments all across.” While the board did not go into specific details, the move comes amid growing public pressure following reports of civil unrest in Bangladesh.
What the BCCI Directive Means for Kolkata Knight Riders
The decision is a major setback for Kolkata Knight Riders, both on and off the field. By spending Rs 9.20 crore, KKR had clearly planned Mustafizur Rahman as their main death-overs specialist for IPL 2026. His slower balls, cutters, and left-arm angle made him a perfect fit for the Eden Gardens pitch.
Without Mustafizur, KKR’s bowling plans now need a quick rethink. The franchise was expected to build its overseas core around Sunil Narine, Cameron Green, and Matheesha Pathirana, with Mustafizur leading the pace attack at the end.
Now, the pressure is squarely on Pathirana, while KKR may need to rely more on Indian fast bowlers like Harshit Rana and Umran Malik. Another option could be adding an extra overseas batter, such as Rachin Ravindra, to balance the XI.
Financially, there is still uncertainty. While the BCCI has allowed KKR to sign a replacement, it is not yet clear whether the Rs 9.20 crore will be fully credited to the franchise’s purse. If not, KKR may have to settle for a lower-cost replacement.
India vs Bangladesh Cricket Ties Under Fresh Cloud
The Mustafizur episode also raises questions over the India vs Bangladesh bilateral cricket. The two boards had postponed a white-ball series last year. While the Bangladesh Cricket Board has said the series could be played in September, the BCCI has not yet confirmed the schedule.
Given the current situation, India is unlikely to commit unless conditions improve. This latest move underlines how cricket decisions are increasingly influenced by off-field events.
For more updates, the official statement was reported by ANI (external source: ani news report on BCCI directive).
