Mustafizur Rahman Released by Kolkata Knight Riders Ahead of IPL 2026
Mustafizur Rahman's Release from KKR
Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman has shared his initial thoughts following his release from the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) prior to the IPL 2026 season. The decision came as a result of directives from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the IPL committee, amid criticism regarding the signing of a Bangladeshi player.
KKR's choice to part ways with Rahman, who was acquired for INR 9.2 crore during the IPL 2026 mini-auction last December, was influenced by backlash related to ongoing religious tensions in Bangladesh. Reports indicate that minority communities in the country have faced violence, leading to significant outrage in India.
The unrest in Bangladesh has escalated following the death of Sharif Osman Hadi, with various reports highlighting attacks on minorities, particularly targeting the Hindu community. This situation has prompted Hindu organizations and community leaders to voice their concerns and demand enhanced protection for minority rights.
Mustafizur Expresses Disappointment
Mustafizur Rahman, who became the most expensive Bangladeshi player in IPL history with his signing by KKR, will not participate in the upcoming IPL season after his release. In a conversation with BDCrictime, he conveyed his disappointment about missing out on IPL 2026.
"If they release me, there is nothing much I can do," Rahman stated.
KKR Media Advisory. pic.twitter.com/ZUZB620Uv7
— KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders) January 3, 2026
Previously, Mustafizur played for several franchises, including Sunrisers Hyderabad, Mumbai Indians, Rajasthan Royals, Chennai Super Kings, and Delhi Capitals. His lucrative contract with KKR marked a significant milestone, but now he will miss the entire IPL 2026 season.
KKR will need to find a suitable overseas replacement to fill the gap left by the Bangladeshi pacer.
BCB Requests Relocation of T20 World Cup Matches
In light of the BCCI's decision to release Mustafizur Rahman, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has been instructed by the country's sports ministry to formally request the International Cricket Council (ICC) to relocate all of Bangladesh's T20 World Cup matches from India to Sri Lanka.
"I have asked the BCB to clarify the situation to the ICC. The board should communicate that if a Bangladeshi player cannot compete in India despite being under contract, the entire Bangladeshi team may not feel secure participating in the World Cup," stated Bangladesh Sports Advisor Asif Nazrul on Facebook.
"I have also directed the Board to request that Bangladesh's World Cup matches be held in Sri Lanka," he added.
Bangladesh is set to play four group stage matches, with three scheduled at Kolkata's Eden Gardens and one at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. They are grouped with two-time champions West Indies, newcomers Italy, 2022 champions England, and Nepal.