The exclusion of Mustafizur Rahman from the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) squad for IPL 2026 has sparked controversy. The left-arm pacer was purchased for Rs 9.20 crore during last month’s auction, but was later released by KKR after directives from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), amidst rising political tensions in Bangladesh concerning minority issues.

Mustafizur Rahman has let his cricket do the talking after his IPL snub. Playing for Rangpur Riders in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), he impressed with a match-winning final over against Dhaka Capitals on Sunday at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium.

Mustafizur’s superb spell guided Rangpur Riders to a thrilling five-run win over Dhaka Capitals. After the match, Rangpur captain Nurul Hasan Sohan applauded Mustafizur’s performance, stressing that despite missing out on the IPL, the Satkhira-born bowler remains calm, focused, and in control of his game.

“Mustafizur is a world-class bowler for us, and he has consistently shown that over the years. We have complete trust in him. There’s nothing more to add. He always leaves a strong impression,” Sohan said in the post-match press conference.

“He is calm and composed. Of course, there might still be some disappointment regarding the KKR situation. He has earned everything he has now, and he deserved even more in the past. But overall, I believe he is doing just fine,” Sohan added.

“To be honest, I don’t pay much attention to social media. I’m not really aware of what’s going on outside. Yes, people have been talking about it. Mustafiz might feel upset, but he always strives to give his best for Bangladesh. From what I can see, he seems calm,” concluded.

Following the match, Mustafizur also shared a post on X, writing, “Pleased to step up when it matters. Glad to contribute in the victory. Onto the next one.”