BCCI Orders KKR to Release Mustafizur Rahman Amid Geopolitical Tensions

Jan 3, 2026|Sports · Cricket

MUMBAI — In a move that has sent shockwaves through the cricketing world, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has instructed the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to immediately release Bangladeshi pacer Mustafizur Rahman from their squad for the upcoming IPL 2026 season.

The decision, confirmed on Saturday morning, appears to be a direct response to escalating geopolitical tensions in the region. BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia told news agency ANI: "Due to the recent developments going on all across, BCCI has instructed the franchise KKR to release Mustafizur Rahman. We will allow KKR to seek a replacement player."

Political Pressure and Public Outcry

While Saikia did not explicitly name the "developments," the move follows days of intense pressure from Indian spiritual and political leaders. Public criticism had been directed at KKR and owner Shah Rukh Khan for maintaining a Bangladeshi player in the lineup amid reports of attacks on Hindu minorities in Bangladesh.

KKR issued a brief statement shortly after the announcement, confirming the release was carried out following "due process and consultations" under the BCCI’s directive.

The Impact on KKR and Mustafizur

Mustafizur, popularly known as "The Fizz," was a high-value acquisition for KKR at the recent auction, fetching INR 9.2 crore. He was intended to lead a revamped bowling attack alongside Matheesha Pathirana and Akash Deep.

His exit is a significant blow to both the player and the franchise:

Only Representative: Mustafizur was the sole Bangladeshi cricketer set to feature in IPL 2026.
Proven Track Record: With 65 wickets in 60 IPL matches across stints with SRH, MI, RR, DC, and CSK, his experience is difficult to replace.

Diplomatic Complexity

The timing of the release adds a layer of diplomatic irony. Just one day prior, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) confirmed a rescheduled white-ball tour by India for March 2026. Furthermore, Bangladesh is still scheduled to travel to India for the T20 World Cup in February-March.

Mustafizur is currently playing for the Rangpur Riders in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), unaware that his high-profile return to the IPL has been cut short by off-field developments. (NewsCenter)