BCCI Chief Mithun Manhas Sets Record Straight On Bangladesh Issue, Says 'World Cup Not Discussed Yet'

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) chief Mithun Manhas clarified that Mustafizur Rahman's release from Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season, following BCCI's directive to Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) due to "recent developments" in Bangladesh, will not impact Bangladesh's participation in the 2026 T20 World Cup in India.

"The BCCI has taken this decision after thorough consultation, and Mr Saikia has already conveyed it to the media. The decision is related only to the IPL; we have not discussed the World Cup yet. We will share details once that is done," Manhas told IANS on Saturday.

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The development comes after BCCI instructed KKR to release Bangladesh pacer Rahman from their squad for the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) season, citing "recent developments" in Bangladesh as the reason. BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed that KKR will be allowed to sign a replacement player if needed.

Rahman was signed by KKR in the IPL auction in Abu Dhabi in December 2025 for Rs 9.2 crore. He formerly played for Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), Mumbai Indians (MI), Rajasthan Royals (RR), Delhi Capitals (DC), and Chennai Super Kings (CSK), and so far, he has picked up 65 wickets in 60 matches since the 2016 edition of the competition.

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The speedster's release from IPL 2026 has also cast a cloud on Bangladesh's matches to be hosted by India in the 2026 Men's T20 World Cup.

Bangladesh are pencilled to play their matches against the West Indies, Italy, and England on February 7, 9, and 14 at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata before facing Nepal at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on February 17.

(With IANS Inputs)