Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have officially acknowledged the directive from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to terminate the contract of Bangladeshi fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman ahead of the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. The decision comes after weeks of mounting controversy surrounding KKR's acquisition of the 30-year-old left-arm pacer at the IPL auction in December, where they secured his services for a substantial INR 9.20 crore.
The BCCI's intervention was confirmed by Secretary Devajit Saikia, who stated that the board had communicated its decision to KKR in light of the "prevailing situation". This situation refers to the growing political and social unease surrounding the inclusion of a Bangladeshi player in a Kolkata-based IPL franchise, fueled by reports of violence against minorities in Bangladesh and strained relations between India and Bangladesh.
Following the announcement, KKR has finally broken its silence, acknowledging that the "release carried out". While the franchise has not issued an official statement elaborating on the matter, this confirms their compliance with the BCCI's instruction.
The controversy began shortly after KKR outbid Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals to acquire Mustafizur Rahman, a seasoned IPL veteran with 65 wickets in 60 matches. Objections arose from sections of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and various religious organizations, who voiced their disapproval of including a Bangladeshi player in the IPL amidst concerns over the treatment of minorities in the neighboring country. Some critics also targeted KKR co-owner, Shah Rukh Khan, for backing the signing.
BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia clarified that KKR would be permitted to name a replacement player if needed. "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, BCCI will allow a replacement player," Saikia told PTI. He attributed the decision to "recent developments all across".
Mustafizur Rahman, known as "The Fizz" and "Cutter Master" for his skillful bowling, has played for several IPL franchises since his debut in 2016, including Sunrisers Hyderabad, Mumbai Indians, Rajasthan Royals, Delhi Capitals, and Chennai Super Kings.
Notably, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) had previously granted Mustafizur a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) to participate in the entire IPL season, allowing him to miss a home series against New Zealand. However, the recent turn of events has superseded this decision.
The BCCI's directive raises questions about the future participation of Bangladeshi players in the IPL. While there isn't a formal ban, the situation has created uncertainty. It is worth noting that the Indian cricket team is scheduled to tour Bangladesh in September 2026 for a white-ball series.
Despite being released, KKR may still be obligated to pay Mustafizur Rahman a significant portion of his contract value, as IPL contracts typically guarantee the full auction price as long as the player is available for selection. Unless a "Force Majeure" clause is invoked or the BCCI provides financial assistance, the financial burden could remain with KKR.
