Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman has issued his first public reaction after being released by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season.
The left-arm pacer, who was bought by the three-time IPL champions for ₹9.20 crore during the mini auction, was removed from the squad following instructions from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
Speaking to BDCrictime, the 30-year-old expressed disappointment but accepted the decision with restraint.
“If they release me, there’s nothing much I can do,” Mustafizur said, marking his first response since the development.
Reports suggest that Rahman was hopeful of featuring in the upcoming IPL season and was left disheartened after being denied the opportunity to play.
In recent days, the decision to sign the Bangladesh international had drawn criticism amid strained diplomatic relations between India and Bangladesh. Both KKR and its co-owner Shah Rukh Khan faced public scrutiny, with some political figures objecting to Rahman’s inclusion in the squad.
According to IPL regulations, franchises cannot unilaterally release a player once purchased at auction. The authority to remove a player lies solely with the BCCI or the player himself. Following confirmation from BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia, KKR complied with the directive and announced they would be allowed to name a replacement.
The developments have had wider implications. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) recently released its home season schedule, which includes a proposed series against India. However, the BCCI has stated that the tour will proceed only after receiving the necessary government clearances.
Additionally, as per ESPNcricinfo, the BCB is expected to approach the International Cricket Council (ICC) to request a change of venue for Bangladesh’s matches in the upcoming T20 World Cup, citing security concerns. The tournament is scheduled to begin in February, with Bangladesh placed in Group C alongside England, Italy, Nepal, and the West Indies.
Bangladesh’s matches were originally slated to be held in Kolkata and Nepal, but a final decision is awaited.
