BCCI asks KKR to release Mustafizur Rahman amid Bangladesh-IPL row

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has formally requested that Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) release Bangladesh pace spearhead Mustafizur Rahman from their squad for the upcoming IPL 2026 season, NDTV reports.

The announcement was made by BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia, who confirmed the board's directive to the franchise following a period of intensifying public and political pressure. 

While the BCCI had initially maintained a "wait and watch" policy, Saikia noted that the decision was taken in light of "recent developments all across." This appears to be a direct reference to the deteriorating diplomatic situation and reported civil unrest in Bangladesh, which has sparked widespread protests within India.

The pacer had become a lightning rod for controversy after KKR secured him for a record Rs 9.20 crore at the December auction, making him the most expensive Bangladeshi player in the league's history.

"Due to the recent developments that are going on all across, BCCI has instructed the franchise KKR to release one of their players, Mustafizur Rahman of Bangladesh, from their squad," Saikia said in a chat with news agency ANI. BCCI has also said that if they ask for any replacement, BCCI is going to allow that replacement."