Kolkata Knight Riders are now dealing with uncertainty after the BCCI told the franchise to release Mustafizur Rahman ahead of the IPL 2026 campaign. The left-arm pacer was picked up for INR 9.20 crore after a competitive auction involving Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals.

BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia acknowledged the release to PTI, noting that KKR have the option to request a replacement player. “The BCCI has instructed Kolkata Knight Riders to release Mustafizur Rahman from their squad. If they wish to bring in a replacement, they may request one, and the BCCI will approve it,” he said.

KKR later issued a formal statement confirming the news, explaining that the BCCI and the IPL, in their capacity as the tournament’s governing body, instructed the franchise to release Mustafizur Rahman.

The statement further mentioned that the release was carried out after proper procedures and discussions, based on the BCCI’s directives. KKR also confirmed that, as per IPL guidelines, the franchise would be allowed to name a replacement player, with additional details to follow shortly.

The decision comes amid rising political sensitivity following reports of minority-targeted violence in Bangladesh, alongside growing scrutiny of Bangladeshi players in IPL squads. Mustafizur Rahman was expected to strengthen KKR’s bowling attack for IPL 2026, making this sudden move a significant disruption to their plans.

In such a situation, the league treats it as force majeure events, where the withdrawal is driven by factors outside the control of the player and the franchise. Historically, teams have been allowed to recover the full auction amount in these cases, and KKR is anticipated to get back the entire Rs 9.20 crore. For the franchise, this reimbursement is essential, both financially and in allowing them to enter the market for a replacement without disrupting their squad balance for the new season.