Kolkata Knight Riders have officially confirmed the release of Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman from their squad for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season, following a directive from the **Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

On January 3, 2026, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia told PTI that KKR had been instructed to terminate Rahman’s contract. The decision came amid reports of rising political and social tensions linked to recent incidents in Bangladesh.

Within hours of the BCCI’s communication, KKR issued an official statement confirming compliance with the order and clarified that they will be permitted to sign a replacement player, as per IPL regulations.

“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 season,” the franchise said.

“The release has been carried out following due process and consultations. BCCI will allow Kolkata Knight Riders to sign a replacement player in line with IPL regulations, with further details to be communicated in due course,” the statement added.

Rahman had been picked by KKR in a competitive bidding war at the IPL mini-auction for ₹9.20 crore, with Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals also in contention. KKR CEO Venky Mysore and head coach Abhishek Nayar ultimately secured the pacer.

Why Was the Release Ordered?

In recent days, KKR and co-owner Shah Rukh Khan faced criticism from certain political figures and sections of social media for signing a Bangladeshi player amid strained relations between India and Bangladesh. The situation escalated following the killing of a Hindu man, Dipu Chandra Das, in Mymensingh last month.

BJP leader Sangeet Som was among those who publicly criticised the signing and called for intervention by the cricket board.

What Do IPL Rules Say?

Under IPL guidelines, franchises cannot unilaterally release a player after an auction. Such a decision can only be taken by the IPL governing council, the BCCI, or the player concerned. This means KKR could not have released Rahman without the board’s formal instruction.

Rahman, who is currently playing in the Bangladesh Premier League, has previously featured in 60 IPL matches, representing teams such as Delhi Capitals, Chennai Super Kings, Sunrisers Hyderabad, Rajasthan Royals, and Mumbai Indians.