Kolkata: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has instructed IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), owned by Shah Rukh Khan, to release Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman from the squad ahead of the 2026 season. The decision comes against the backdrop of rising violence against minority Hindus in Bangladesh, which had triggered calls for his removal from the league.
BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia said the board reviewed recent developments before issuing the directive to the franchise. Acting on these considerations, KKR has been asked to release Rahman from its roster. The board also clarified that if the franchise seeks a replacement player, it will be permitted to do so under IPL regulations.
Opposition to Mustafizur Rahman’s participation in the IPL has intensified amid reports of violence targeting Hindus in Bangladesh. According to available information, three members of the Hindu community have been killed in the past 14 days. These developments have fuelled public and political pressure surrounding the player’s involvement in the tournament.
The IPL 2026 season is scheduled to begin on March 26, with the final set to be played on May 31.
KKR had acquired Mustafizur Rahman for ₹9.2 crore during the IPL mini-auction held in Abu Dhabi last month. With this deal, Rahman became the most expensive Bangladeshi player in the history of the IPL. His release now marks a significant development ahead of the upcoming season.
