Rahman’s release from the squad for the upcoming IPL 2026 season follows growing political tensions in Bangladesh and fragile relations with India. In remarks to ANI, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia mentioned that this decision was triggered by “recent developments all across.”
He also noted that the board would permit KKR
to bring in a replacement player if they chose to do so.
“Given the recent developments occurring in various places, BCCI has directed KKR to release their player, Mustafizur Rahman from Bangladesh, and has agreed to facilitate any replacement if requested,” the board’s secretary explained.
It is significant to highlight that Shah Rukh Khan’s co-owned KKR secured the left-arm pacer Rahman for ₹ 9.2 crore during the Abu Dhabi mini-auction.
Concerns over bilateral relations have led to significant public backlash and political turmoil regarding the signing. Many political figures have criticized Khan and his team for seemingly disregarding national sentiment.
Recently, a wave of violence against Hindus has been reported in Bangladesh, amplifying demands for Rahman’s removal.
Spiritual guru Devkinandan Thakur previously condemned the inclusion of a Bangladesh player in KKR. “In Bangladesh, Hindus are facing brutal murders, their homes are being destroyed, and their sisters and daughters are being violated. After witnessing such atrocities, how can someone be so indifferent, especially someone who claims to own a team? How can he be so unfeeling as to include a player from that very country?” he stated, as reported by ANI.
BJP leader Sangeet Som labeled Khan a “gaddar (traitor),” accusing him of investing in players “from a nation hostile to India.”
“Despite all this, traitors like Shah Rukh Khan, whom I call a traitor since everything he has is courtesy of India and its people, are investing in players from a country that acts against India. I want to inform individuals like Shah Rukh Khan that they will not prosper,” he remarked.
He praised the recent BCCI decision to release Rahman as a “victory for Hindus across the nation.”
“Thanks to the BCCI for its decision considering the 100 crore Sanatanis of India. We stated yesterday that this matter would be acknowledged because the sentiments of 100 crore people cannot be dismissed. This is a victory for Hindus nationwide,” he concluded.
