Bangladesh pace sensation Mustafizur Rahman has finally reacted after being released by Kolkata Knight Riders ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season. His exit follows a directive from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), issued amid mounting political tensions between India and Bangladesh.
Speaking to BDCricTime, the 30-year-old expressed helplessness over the development.
“If they release me, what can I do?” Mustafizur said, with reports suggesting he is understandably disappointed with the call.
Pressure had reportedly been increasing on both BCCI and KKR after the recent killing of a Hindu man in Bangladesh triggered widespread outrage in India. KKR co-owner and Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan also faced criticism from multiple quarters over Mustafizur’s presence in the team.
KKR had signed Mustafizur for a massive ₹9.20 crore—a huge jump from his ₹2 crore base price—after an intense bidding tussle involving Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals at the IPL mini-auction.
Confirming the decision, BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia told media:
“After observing the recent developments in Bangladesh, BCCI has decided to instruct KKR to release Mustafizur Rahman from their squad. If KKR requests a replacement, the BCCI will consider and allow it under IPL regulations.”
He added that while the decision is linked to the present situation, future developments remain uncertain.
Meanwhile, there is a silver lining for the Bangladesh star. Just a day before the announcement, Mustafizur registered a remarkable achievement—becoming the first Bangladeshi fast bowler to take 400+ wickets in T20 cricket, marking a major milestone in his career.
With the IPL season scheduled to begin on March 26, KKR now has the option to rope in a replacement player, while the controversy continues to cast a shadow over cricketing ties and player participation between the two nations.