The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has instructed the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to release Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman from their squad ahead of the 2026 Indian Premier League season, amid rising diplomatic strain between India and Bangladesh. The franchise confirmed the development on Saturday.
Rahman, 30, was signed by KKR for ₹9.2 crore at the IPL 2026 Auction after a competitive bidding battle with Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals. However, growing political and public pressure following the recent killing of a Hindu man in Bangladesh led to increasing scrutiny over his participation in the tournament. The criticism also extended to KKR co-owner Shah Rukh Khan, with some political leaders questioning the inclusion of the pacer.
BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia said that the board will allow KKR to sign a replacement player for the upcoming season. In an official statement, the franchise said it had complied with the BCCI/IPL directive to release Rahman from the squad.
Amid the escalating situation, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has decided to approach the ICC seeking a change of venues for Bangladesh’s matches in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, which India will co-host with Sri Lanka. Bangladesh are scheduled to play fixtures in Kolkata and Mumbai, including matches against the West Indies, Italy, England, and Nepal.
The situation underscores the growing impact of geopolitical tensions on sporting relations and player participation ahead of the upcoming season.
