Mustafizur Rahman was bought by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for Rs 9.20 crore during the IPL 2026 mini-auction last month. However, on Saturday, January 3, the speedster was released by the three-time champions.
BCCI Secretary Devjit Saikia shared in a media statement that the cricket-governing body has asked the Knight Riders to release mustafizur Amid growing resentment among Indians over the treatment of religious minorities in Bangladesh.
In the afternoon, KKR confirmed through an official statement that it followed BCCI instructions and let go of Bangladesh's charismatic left-arm pacer.
“Kolkata Knight Riders confirms that the BCCI/IPL, as the regulator of the IPL, has directed it to release Mustafizur Rahman from the team ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season,” a statement said.
“The release has been made after due process and consultation on the instructions of the Board of Control for Cricket in India. The BCCI will allow Kolkata Knight Riders a replacement player in line with IPL rules, and further information will be given in due course,” the Ajinkya Rahane-led team said.
Later, Mustafizur shared his reaction after being ignored ahead of the 19th edition of India's premier T20 competition.
“What else can you do if you're laid off?” The 30-year-old seamer said while speaking to BDcrictime.
Mustafizur, who became the most expensive Bangladeshi cricketer in IPL history, could have achieved another feat had he played in the upcoming season of the 10-team tournament. He needed to play just 12 more matches to become the most capped Bangladeshi player in the IPL, surpassing Shakib Al Hasan's tally of 71.
Mustafizur has played 60 IPL matches, in which he has taken 65 wickets at an average of 28.45 and economy rate of 8.13. Before joining the Knights, he has represented Sunrisers Hyderabad, Mumbai Indians, Rajasthan Royals, Delhi Capitals and Chennai Super Kings.
Mustafizur was in excellent form in the International League T20 (ILT20) 2025-26, taking 15 wickets in eight matches. He is currently playing for Rangpur Riders in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL). He has taken six wickets in his first three matches for the franchise this season.
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