English
English
English
KKR’s shocking IPL 2026 decision has stunned fans. Bought for Rs 9.20 crore, Mustafizur Rahman is suddenly out amid controversy and BCCI pressure. What forced Shah Rukh Khan’s franchise to act and who replaces him next?
KKR releases Mustafizur Rahman after BCCI intervention
Kolkata: Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Saturday officially confirmed the release of Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman from their squad ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season. The announcement came hours after the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) instructed the franchise to let go of the pacer following recent developments in Bangladesh.
Mustafizur was picked up by KKR for INR 9.20 crore during the IPL 2026 mini auction after an intense bidding war involving Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals. However, the signing soon became controversial amid reports of violence against minorities in Bangladesh, which triggered strong reactions from political leaders and social media users in India.
Shah Rukh Khan under fire as BCCI directs KKR to remove Mustafizur Rahman
On January 3, 2026, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia told news agency PTI that KKR had been asked to release Mustafizur Rahman due to the sensitive situation and growing public sentiment. With pressure mounting, the cricket board intervened and directed the franchise to take action.
As per IPL rules, franchises cannot unilaterally release a player after purchasing him at the auction. Any such decision requires approval from the IPL governing council or the BCCI, making the board’s involvement crucial in this case.
Two hours after the BCCI’s directive became public, KKR issued an official statement confirming Mustafizur’s release. “Kolkata Knight Riders confirms that BCCI/IPL, as the regulator of IPL, has instructed it to release Mustafizur Rahman from the squad ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League season,” the franchise said.
The statement further clarified that the process was completed after due consultations and in accordance with league regulations. KKR also confirmed that they will be permitted to sign a replacement player, with further details to be shared later.
Cameron Green Becomes IPL 2026’s Most Expensive Overseas Player, Sold to KKR for ₹25.20 Crore
The controversy intensified after several political leaders criticised KKR and co-owner Shah Rukh Khan for signing a Bangladeshi player amid strained India-Bangladesh relations. BJP leader Sangeet Som even went on to label Khan a “traitor,” escalating calls for BCCI intervention.
Mustafizur Rahman, who is currently playing in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), has featured in 60 IPL matches so far. Over the years, he has represented franchises such as Delhi Capitals, Chennai Super Kings, Sunrisers Hyderabad, Rajasthan Royals and Mumbai Indians, establishing himself as a proven performer in the league.
