File photo of Mustafizur Rahman. The BCCI has asked Kolkata Knight Riders to release the fast bowler due to recent developments in Bangladesh.
| Photo Credit: Emmanual Yogini
The BCCI, on Saturday (January 3, 2026), officially directed the Kolkata Knight Riders to release Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman from their squad for the 2026 IPL season.
BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed the move, citing “recent developments all across” as the reason for the decision.
KKR had acquired the services of the 30-year-old left-armer for ₹9.20 crore after an intense bidding war with Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals at the players’ auction last month.
The BCCI said KKR will be allowed to name a replacement player if required.
There was a huge furore over the inclusion of Mustafizur Rahman in the IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders, co-owned by actor Shah Rukh Khan. It sparked controversy in Maharashtra as politicians and spiritual leaders criticised the actor.
Political parties slammed Shah Rukh Khan over the inclusion of the Bangladeshi fast bowler into the squad.
The pressure had been mounting on the BCCI over the participation of the Bangladesh cricketer amid recent killing of a Hindu man in the country and India’s expression of concern for the safety of minorities there.
(With inputs from PTI)
Published – January 03, 2026 11:10 am IST
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