Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have officially released Bangladeshi fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman from their squad for the upcoming IPL season of 2026, following a directive from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). The franchise confirmed the news in a press release, stating that the decision was taken on the instructions of the IPL governing body.

"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 (IPL) season," the franchise said. KKR added that the release was carried out following due process and consultations, based on the BCCI's instructions. The BCCI has also allowed KKR to name a replacement player in line with IPL regulations.

BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed that the board had asked the three-time champions to release Rahman from their squad and that they would be allowed to find a replacement. "The BCCI has instructed KKR to release Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman from their squad, while also allowing the franchise to name a replacement," Saikia told the press.

The decision follows reports of violence against members of the Hindu community in Bangladesh in December. Criticism had also been voiced regarding Rahman's involvement in the IPL. Some political leaders and religious groups raised objections soon after he was signed, linking their concerns to India–Bangladesh relations and reports of unrest in Bangladesh. BJP leader Kaustav Bagchi publicly objected to the presence of Bangladeshi players in Kolkata IPL fixtures, a viewpoint that gained traction, with criticism directed at KKR co-owner Shah Rukh Khan.

Mustafizur Rahman was bought by KKR for ₹9.20 crores during the mini auction last month in Abu Dhabi. He is currently playing for Rangpur Riders in the Bangladesh Premier League. Mustafizur Rahman broke his silence after being removed from the upcoming edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL), stating that there's nothing he can do. "If they release me, there's nothing much I can do,” Mustafizur said.

The sports adviser to the interim government of Bangladesh has instructed authorities to stop IPL telecasts in Bangladesh. Dr. Asif Nazrul, adviser of sports and youth affairs, Bangladesh, expressed his “strong condemnation and protest” and said he will not “tolerate insult to Bangladesh's cricket, cricketers, and of Bangladesh".