Has BCCI Directed KKR to Release Mustafizur Rahman?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- BCCI has officially requested KKR to release Mustafizur Rahman.
- This decision comes amid controversy regarding violent incidents in Bangladesh.
- Mustafizur Rahman was signed for a record Rs 9.20 crore.
- Kolkata Knight Riders have yet to issue a statement.
- Rahman has an impressive IPL record with 65 wickets in 60 matches.
New Delhi, Jan 3 (NationPress) The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary Devajit Saikia has officially instructed the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to release Bangladesh pace sensation Mustafizur Rahman from their roster ahead of the IPL 2026 season, concluding weeks of debate regarding this notable signing.
Following reports of violent incidents targeting the Hindu community in Bangladesh last December, many critics raised their concerns about Rahman's involvement in the IPL, turning the matter into a political and social topic transcending the realm of cricket.
“The BCCI has mandated KKR to let go of Bangladesh's pace bowler Mustafizur Rahman while permitting the franchise to name a replacement,” confirmed BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia to IANS.
Rahman became a focal point of discussion after KKR acquired him for a staggering Rs 9.20 crore during the December mini-auction, marking him as the most expensive Bangladeshi player ever selected for the IPL. His signing followed a fierce bidding war between Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals, starting from a base of Rs 2 crore.
As of now, KKR has not made any official statement regarding the BCCI's decision, although compliance is anticipated before the season begins.
Previously, spiritual leader Devkinandan Thakur publicly criticized KKR and its co-owner, Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khan, for choosing to sign Rahman. Thakur noted that adherents of Sanatan Dharma, especially Hindus, felt offended by KKR's decision amid the ongoing situation involving atrocities against Hindus in the neighboring nation.
Rahman boasts impressive credentials in the IPL. The 30-year-old has claimed 65 wickets in 60 matches at an economy rate of 8.13 since debuting with Sunrisers Hyderabad in 2016. He has played for several franchises, including Mumbai Indians (2018), Rajasthan Royals (2021), Delhi Capitals (2022-23), and Chennai Super Kings (2024). Following CSK's failure to make the playoffs, Rahman was released and subsequently rejoined DC last season as a replacement for the injured Jake Fraser-McGurk.