A rare behind-the-scenes intervention sends shockwaves through the IPL as geopolitics collides with cricketing plans in Kolkata.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India has instructed Kolkata Knight Riders to immediately release Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman ahead of the 2026 Indian Premier League season, triggering widespread debate across the cricketing and political landscape.
The directive, confirmed by BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia, comes amid growing concerns in India over recent violence against Hindu minorities in Bangladesh. Saikia said the board had advised the franchise to release the pacer due to “recent developments happening everywhere”, signalling a precautionary step rather than a cricketing decision.
The move followed mounting pressure from political leaders and religious organisations. Kolkata Knight Riders co owner Shah Rukh Khan faced sharp criticism from BJP and Shiv Sena figures for signing a Bangladeshi player at a time of strained bilateral relations.
Mustafizur Rahman was bought for Rs 9.20 crore at the December 2025 mini auction after competitive bidding involving Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals. His signing was seen as a major boost to the Knight Riders bowling attack, given his IPL experience dating back to 2016.
The BCCI has clarified that Kolkata Knight Riders will be allowed to sign a foreign replacement to fill the vacant slot. However, the removal of Mustafizur marks a rare instance of the governing body stepping into IPL squad management for non cricketing reasons.
Relations between India and Bangladesh have worsened following the death of a Hindu man in Mymensingh last month and reports of communal violence. Religious groups had even threatened to disrupt matches in Kolkata.
While the BCCI initially stated there was no formal ban on Bangladeshi players, the latest decision reflects an effort to safeguard tournament stability. Kolkata Knight Riders now face the urgent task of finding a quality left arm pacer at short notice.
