BCCI asks KKR to drop Bangladesh player Mustafizur Rahman ahead of IPL 2026 amid rising controversy: Report
PTC Web Desk: According to a report by India Today, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has directed Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to release Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman from their squad ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season. The decision puts an end to speculation surrounding the pacer’s future with the franchise.
The development was confirmed to India Today by BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia, who stated that the board had formally communicated its decision to the IPL franchise in view of the prevailing situation.
“Considering the recent developments and sensitivities involved, the BCCI has advised KKR to release Mustafizur Rahman from their squad,” Saikia was quoted as saying in the report.
Mustafizur had been picked up by KKR for Rs 9.20 crore during the IPL 2026 mini-auction held in December 2025. While the signing initially attracted attention for its cricketing value, it soon became a subject of controversy following objections raised by political leaders and certain groups.
The backlash intensified against the backdrop of recent incidents in Bangladesh, including the killing of a Hindu man, which reignited concerns in India over the safety of minorities in the neighbouring country. These developments reportedly led to heightened scrutiny of Bangladeshi players participating in IPL matches, particularly those scheduled in Kolkata.
The issue gained further traction after BJP leader Kaustav Bagchi publicly questioned the inclusion of Bangladeshi cricketers in IPL fixtures at Eden Gardens. The debate later expanded, with criticism also directed at KKR’s management, including co-owner and actor Shah Rukh Khan, for going ahead with the signing.
While the BCCI has not officially commented on the political aspects of the matter, the move to ask KKR to release Mustafizur is being seen as a precautionary step to prevent any disruption ahead of the IPL 2026 season.
- With inputs from agencies
