BCCI steps in: KKR told to release Mustafizur Rahman amid IPL political storm

Mumbai/IBNS: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has directed Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to release Bangladeshi fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman from its squad amid a political controversy triggered by his inclusion during a period of rising violence against Hindus in Bangladesh.

IBNS

Jan 03, 2026

5 min read

Confirming the development, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia told ANI that the decision was taken in view of the prevailing situation.

“Due to the recent developments, BCCI has instructed the franchise KKR to release one of their players, Mustafizur Rahman of Bangladesh, from their squad. BCCI has also said that if KKR seeks a replacement, it will be permitted,” Saikia said.

#WATCH | Guwahati | BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia says, "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 and BCCI has also said that if they ask… pic.twitter.com/53oxuRcmZp
— ANI (@ANI) January 3, 2026

The controversy erupted after former BJP MLA Sangeet Som labelled Bollywood actor and KKR co-owner Shah Rukh Khan a “traitor” at a public rally, alleging that the actor had betrayed the country by signing a Bangladeshi player.

Som further claimed that Bangladeshi cricketers would face opposition if they toured India.

The issue gained momentum after spiritual leader Devkinandan Thakur appealed to the KKR management to reconsider Mustafizur Rahman’s inclusion in the team.

The backlash intensified following provocative remarks by Meera Rathore, district president of the All India Hindu Mahasabha in Agra, who staged a protest by defacing Shah Rukh Khan’s poster. Her remarks during the protest drew widespread criticism.

Mustafizur Rahman was purchased by KKR for Rs 9.2 crore at the mini auction held in December 2025.