IPL 2026: KKR Release Mustafizur Rahman Following BCCI Directive

New Delhi — The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have officially released Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman from their squad for the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) season, acting on a directive issued by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

The decision comes amid sustained controversy and public debate over the pacer’s participation in the tournament. In a formal statement, the franchise said it had complied with instructions from the IPL’s governing body after completing all required consultations and procedural formalities.

“Kolkata Knight Riders confirms that the BCCI/IPL, as the regulator of the IPL, has instructed the franchise to release Mustafizur Rahman from the squad ahead of the upcoming season. The release has been carried out following due process and consultations, as directed by the Board of Control for Cricket in India. The BCCI will permit KKR to sign a replacement player in accordance with IPL regulations, and further details will be announced in due course,” the statement read.

Earlier on Saturday, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed the board’s decision, stating that KKR had been asked to release Rahman and was granted permission to identify a suitable replacement. “The BCCI has instructed KKR to release Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman from their squad and has allowed the franchise to name a replacement,” Saikia told IANS.

The move follows reports of violence against members of the Hindu community in Bangladesh in December, which sparked criticism and objections from various quarters regarding Rahman’s involvement in the IPL.

Rahman had attracted significant attention at the December mini-auction, where KKR secured his services for a record Rs 9.20 crore, making him the most expensive Bangladeshi player in IPL history. The left-arm pacer was bought from a base price of Rs 2 crore after an intense bidding contest involving Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals.

Since making his IPL debut with Sunrisers Hyderabad in 2016, the 30-year-old has taken 65 wickets in 60 matches at an economy rate of 8.13. Over the years, he has represented multiple franchises, including Mumbai Indians (2018), Rajasthan Royals (2021), Delhi Capitals (2022–23), and Chennai Super Kings (2024).

He also featured for Delhi Capitals in IPL 2025 after being drafted in as an injury replacement for Jake Fraser-McGurk.

With inputs from IANS