NEW DELHI: In a move underscoring the growing overlap between sport and geopolitics, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has formally directed Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to release Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman from their squad ahead of the IPL 2026 season. The decision was confirmed by BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia following mounting public and political pressure.
Saikia said the board had initially adopted a “wait and watch” approach but acted in response to “recent developments all across,” a reference widely seen as linked to the deteriorating diplomatic situation and reports of civil unrest in Bangladesh that have triggered protests in India. KKR had secured Mustafizur for a record Rs 9.20 crore roughly around 1.1 million USD at the December auction, making him the most expensive Bangladeshi player in IPL history.
“Due to the recent developments that are going on all across, BCCI has instructed the franchise KKR to release one of their players, Mustafizur Rahman of Bangladesh, from their squad,” Saikia told ANI, adding that the board would permit KKR to sign a replacement if they choose to do so.
