BCCI Requests Kolkata Knight Riders to Release Mustafizur Rahman Amid Political Tensions

BCCI's Directive to KKR Regarding Mustafizur Rahman

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has instructed the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to release Bangladeshi fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman from their roster ahead of the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) season, citing escalating diplomatic tensions between India and Bangladesh.

KKR had secured the 30-year-old left-arm pacer for ₹9.20 crore during a competitive auction, where they faced off against Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals, starting from a base price of ₹2 crore.

According to BCCI officials, KKR will have the option to select a replacement player if necessary.

BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed, "The BCCI has requested Kolkata Knight Riders to release Mustafizur Rahman from their squad. They can request a replacement if needed, and the BCCI will accommodate that request."

When questioned about the rationale behind this decision, Saikia mentioned, "This is due to recent developments in the region." The BCCI has faced increasing pressure regarding Rahman's participation following the recent murder of a Hindu individual in Bangladesh, raising concerns about the safety of minorities in the country.

Shah Rukh Khan, co-owner of KKR, has also been embroiled in the controversy surrounding Rahman's acquisition. Political figures have criticized the decision, citing alleged human rights violations against Hindus in Bangladesh.

Members of the BJP and Shiv Sena have expressed their disapproval, stating they cannot accept a Bangladeshi player in the IPL under the current circumstances. BJP leader Sangeet Som accused Shah Rukh Khan of 'treason' for signing a player from Bangladesh, highlighting the persecution of Hindus in that nation.

Som stated, "In Bangladesh, Hindus are being tortured, killed, and displaced. Signing players from there is an act of treason against our country."

Echoing these sentiments, Shiv Sena leader Krishna Hegde argued that players from nations where atrocities against Hindus occur should be barred from participating in India. He emphasized, "They cannot perpetrate violence against Hindus in Bangladesh and then benefit from our hospitality and resources in India," urging the BCCI and IPL governing body to impose a ban on such players.

Conversely, the Congress party defended Shah Rukh Khan, with leader Bhai Jagtap asserting that the controversy highlights the 'hypocrisy of the BJP-RSS', noting that India maintains sporting relations despite political disagreements with other nations.