Guwahati, Jan 3: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has asked Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to release Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman from their squad ahead of the 2026 Indian Premier League season, citing recent developments impacting bilateral relations between India and Bangladesh.
Confirming the decision, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia told news agency on Saturday that KKR would be permitted to name a replacement player if required. “The BCCI has asked Kolkata Knight Riders to release Mustafizur Rahman from its squad. They can ask for a replacement, if needed, and upon request, the BCCI will allow a replacement player,” he said, adding that the decision was taken “because of recent developments all across.”
KKR had acquired the 30-year-old left-arm pacer for Rs 9.20 crore, well above his base price of Rs 2 crore, following a bidding war with Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals at the players’ auction last month. The upcoming season was set to be Rahman’s first with the three-time IPL champions.
Pressure had been mounting on the BCCI over Rahman’s participation following the recent killing of a Hindu man in Bangladesh and India’s expression of concern over the safety of minorities there. The issue also triggered political criticism, with some leaders from the ruling BJP questioning KKR’s decision to include the Bangladeshi bowler. KKR co-owner and Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan also came under criticism in the backdrop of the controversy.
Rahman has featured in eight IPL editions since his debut in 2016, missing only the 2019 and 2020 seasons. Over the years, he has represented Sunrisers Hyderabad, Mumbai Indians, Delhi Capitals, Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals.
Meanwhile, uncertainty continues to surround bilateral cricket ties between India and Bangladesh. The two boards had postponed a white-ball series last year, though the Bangladesh Cricket Board said on Friday that the series is scheduled to be played in September this year. However, the BCCI remains non-committal and is unlikely to agree to the tour amid the volatile political situation in Bangladesh.
Relations between the two countries deteriorated after the ouster of Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who fled to India in August last year following anti-government protests. She was later sentenced to death in absentia by a tribunal this year for her alleged role in a deadly crackdown during the agitation.
Diplomatic tensions have since escalated, with Dhaka summoning Indian High Commissioner Pranay Verma five times over various issues, while India summoned Bangladesh High Commissioner Reaz Hamidullah once to convey concerns over security. The transition from an “India-friendly” Awami League government to the Muhammad Yunus-led interim dispensation, along with Dhaka’s renewed engagement with Pakistan, has further complicated regional dynamics. (Agencies)
