Kolkata: In a dramatic turn blending cricket with geopolitics, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have released Bangladeshi pace sensation Mustafizur Rahman from their IPL 2026 squad following a direct directive from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
The left-arm pacer, acquired by KKR for a whopping ₹9.20 crore in last month’s auction after intense bidding from Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals, became the centre of controversy amid reports of escalating violence against Hindu minorities in Bangladesh. Hindu organisations, BJP leaders, and others criticised the signing, questioning the inclusion of a Bangladeshi player and even targeting KKR co-owner Shah Rukh Khan.
BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed the board’s instruction, citing “recent developments” without elaborating further. KKR promptly issued a statement: “The release has been carried out following due process and consultations, upon the instruction of the BCCI.” The franchise has been assured permission to name a replacement player under IPL rules.
Adding a political twist, TMC vice-president and spokesperson Jayprakash Majumdar slammed the BCCI, asking why Bangladeshi players were allowed in the auction in the first place when Pakistani cricketers remain banned. He accused the BJP-led board of hypocrisy and defended Shah Rukh Khan, insisting the fault lies with BCCI chief Jay Shah.
As tensions simmer between sport and bilateral relations, Mustafizur’s forcedu ur exit raises fresh questions about politics influencing the gentleman’s game.