New Delhi, Jan 3 (V7N)- The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has instructed Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to release Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman from their squad ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season.

BCCI Secretary Debjit Saikia confirmed the development, stating that the decision was taken in consideration of the “current situation.” He added that the board would approve the inclusion of a replacement player if KKR chooses to do so. However, no detailed explanation was provided regarding the reasons behind Mustafizur’s release.

Earlier, KKR had acquired Mustafizur Rahman for Rs 9 crore during the IPL auction. Known for his deceptive cutters and effective death-over bowling, Mustafizur has built a strong reputation in the IPL, following in the footsteps of fellow Bangladesh star Shakib Al Hasan.

The BCCI’s directive has cast uncertainty over Mustafizur’s participation in the IPL 2026 season and may also prompt changes within the KKR squad composition.

Notably, Mustafizur Rahman remains the first and only foreign player to win the IPL Emerging Player of the Year award, an achievement he earned in 2016 while representing Sunrisers Hyderabad.

Cricket analysts believe the development could have broader implications for overseas player selections in the upcoming IPL season.

END/SMA/AJ