KKR respond to BCCI instruction on Mustafizur Rahman

Originally posted on Crictoday | By V.M.Suriya Narayanan | Last updated Jan 3, 2026 6:50 AM ET

Kolkata Knight Riders have confirmed Mustafizur Rahman’s exit from their IPL squad after receiving formal instructions from the BCCI. The decision follows widespread discussion and controversy linked to the Bangladesh fast bowler’s participation in the league.

“Kolkata Knight Riders confirms that BCCI/IPL, as the regulator of IPL, has instructed it to release Mustafizur Rahman from the squad ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season. The release has been carried out following due process and consultations, upon the instruction of the Board of Control for Cricket in India. BCCI will allow Kolkata Knight Riders a replacement player in line with IPL regulations, and further details will be communicated in due course,” KKR posted on X.

KKR Media Advisory. pic.twitter.com/ZUZB620Uv7
— KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders) January 3, 2026

The call was taken after reports surfaced in December regarding attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh, while the pacer’s participation in the IPL had also drawn criticism from several quarters.

On Saturday, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia said that the board has formally directed KKR to release Rahman and cleared the franchise to seek a replacement player.

“The BCCI has asked KKR to part ways with Mustafizur Rahman and has also given the franchise the go-ahead to bring in a replacement,” he told IANS.

The three-time champions paid INR 9.2 crore for the speedster during the auction last month. Mustafizur has played for Sunrisers Hyderabad, Delhi Capitals, Chennai Super Kings, Rajasthan Royals and Mumbai Indians in the past. In 60 IPL matches, he has taken 65 wickets at an economy of 8.13 since making his debut in 2016.

This article first appeared on Crictoday and was syndicated with permission.

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