Bangladesh cricket team star Mustafizur Rahman has ended his silence on being released by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) which has now snowballed into a big controversy. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) directed the IPL franchise to release the pacer due to widespread outrage and unrest that had developed in parts of India over the inclusion of a Bangladesh player in IPL. This came amid soaring tensions between India and Bangladesh.
Mustafizur Rahman on being released by KKR
Speaking to BDCrictime, Rahman reacted to being released by three-time champions KKR before IPL 2026. Resigning to fate, the Bangladesh pacer said that there was nothing that he could do if a team lets him go. It is pertinent to point out that in the aftermath of KKR releasing him, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has also withdrawn the No Objection Certificate (NOC) provided to Mustafizur to feature in the IPL, which means that even if the decision to release him is reversed, he won’t be able to take part in the cash-rich league.
“If they release me, there is nothing much I can do,” Mustafizur Rahman said.
Rahman’s release has triggered strong reactions from the BCB. Bangladesh have now written to the ICC seeking their T20 World Cup 2026 matches to be shifted from India to Sri Lanka as they fear security concerns for their players. Reports also stated that the ICC was willing to consider Bangladesh’s request and is set to take a call on the matter in a day or two.
What KKR said
“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, upon the instruction of the Board of Control of Cricket in India. BCCI will allow Kolkata Knight Riders a replacement player in line with IPL regulations, and further details will be communicated in due course.“
