Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have released Mustafizur Rahman from their squad for IPL 2026 after the BCCI "instructed" them to do so because of "recent developments", possibly referring to geo-political developments in the region.

The Bangladesh government has ordered the suspension of the broadcast of all matches of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season. The decision came after Mustafizur Rahman was released from the IPL following instructions issued by the BCCI,

"Kolkata Knight Riders confirms that BCCI/IPL, as the regulator of IPL, has instructed it to release Mustafizur Rahman from the squad ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season. The release has been carried out following due process and consultations,

Rahman, who became the most expensive Bangladeshi player ever after Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) secured his services for Rs 9.20 crore at last month’s mini-auction, has been released from their Indian Premier League (IPL) squad following instructions from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

Mustafizur Rahman’s surprise Pakistan Super League signing amid his IPL 2026 exit has triggered a rare cricketing flashpoint involving the BCCI, PCB, BCB, and ICC.

Bangladesh pacer Tanzim Sakib has admitted that he may have to rethink the prospect of entering the Indian Premier League (IPL) auction next season following Kolkata Knight Riders’ decision to release Mustafizur Rahman upon instructions from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

Mustafizur was bought by KKR for Rs 9.20 crore at the IPL auction following competitive bids from Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals.