Mustafizur Rahman's IPL 2026 Dreams Over? Know Full Details Here

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has instructed KKR to release Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman from their squad ahead of the 2026 edition of the Indian Premier League. The decision was communicated to the franchise following recent developments within the cricketing landscape and the political tensions between the two nations.

The news reports of Mustafizur Rahman out of IPL have been circulating for quite some time as he found himself at the centre of controversy after one of the best IPL teams of all time, KKR, picked him up for a record ₹9.20 crore at the December mini auction. This bid made him the most expensive Bangladeshi player ever bought in the IPL.

Will Mustafizur Rahman Play IPL 2026?

BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed the move, stating that the board felt it necessary to act in the current situation. He also clarified that Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) would not be left at a disadvantage, as the franchise has been assured permission to bring in a replacement player if they wish to do so.

Saikia explained that the move was due to the “recent developments on multiple fronts,” which refers to the worsening diplomatic situation and reports of civil unrest in Bangladesh. The situation has reportedly triggered protests in several parts of India, which is believed to have influenced the board’s decision.

Mustafizur Rahman IPL 2026 absence could prove to be an upset for the franchise, as they were relying on him for his T20 experience, especially in the death overs. The Bangladesh left-arm pacer is among the best T20 bowlers and has previously played in the IPL for five other franchises over a career of 60 matches and has picked up 65 wickets at an average of 28 and an economy of 8.13.

Rahman has featured in eight IPL editions since 2016, missing the tournament only in 2019 and 2020. He has played for teams such as Sunrisers Hyderabad, Mumbai Indians, Delhi Capitals, Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals. The upcoming edition was going to be his first for three-time IPL winners KKR.

IND vs BAN Bilateral Series Uncertain Amid Political Tensions

India and Bangladesh cricket boards had earlier postponed a white-ball bilateral series last year. The Bangladesh Cricket Board said on Friday (January 2, 2026) that the series is planned to be played in Bangladesh in September this year.

However, the BCCI has not given any clear assurance on the schedule and is unlikely to go ahead with the tour because of the uncertain political situation in Bangladesh. The future of the IND vs BAN series is highly uncertain amid this geopolitical situation, and the BCCI will most likely refrain from this series and will remain non-committal until the situation gets better.