- By Himanshu Badola
- Sat, 03 Jan 2026 02:14 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
KKR IPL 2026 Squad Updates: Kolkata Knight Riders have released Bangladesh's star pacer Mustafizur Rahman from their squad ahead of the IPL 2026. KKR bought Mustafizur for a record-breaking price of Rs 9.20 crore in the mini auction that took place in December, making him the most expensive Bangladeshi player in the league's history.
Losing a key overseas fast bowler, Mustafizur's absence will be a major setback to the KKR as the three-time champions followed the BCCI's directive amid the rising political tensions between India and Bangladesh. "KKR confirms that BCCI/IPL, as the regulator of IPL, has instructed it to release Mustafizur Rahman from the squad ahead of the upcoming IPL season," said in an official statement.
"The release has been carried out following due process and consultations, upon the instruction of the BCCI in India," the statement added.
The decision has been taken amid the huge backlash, with rising cases of killings of Hindus in Bangladesh sparking public and political reactions. Recently, Rahman, who is currently playing for Rangpur Riders in the Bangladesh Premier League, shared a post on social media as he acknowledged his incredible achievement. "Alhamdulillah for another milestone. 400 T20 wickets and a solid win against the Sylhet Titans. Always grateful to perform. Thanks to everyone for the love and support," Rahman wrote on X.
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"Due to the recent developments that are going on all across, BCCI has instructed the franchise KKR to release one of their players - Mustafizur Rahman of Bangladesh - from their squad, and BCCI has also said that if they ask for any replacement, BCCI is going to allow that replacement," BCCI secretary Devaji Saikia told ANI on Saturday (January 3) morning.
Mustafizur has been a regular feature in the IPL since the 2016 season, representing teams like SunRisers Hyderabad, Delhi Capitals, Chennai Super Kings, and Rajasthan Royals.
Will KKR Get Refund Of Rs 9.20 Crore For Replacement?
The BCCI has confirmed that the Kolkata Knight Riders will get a replacement for Rahman, who joined the franchise at a much higher amount than his base price of Rs 2 crore after a bidding war with the Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals.
"BCCI will allow KKR a replacement player in line with IPL regulations, and further details will be communicated in due course," KKR said in a statement.