Will Daryl Mitchell Replace Mustafizur Rahman in KKR's IPL 2026 Squad?

Daryl Mitchell emerged as the standout performer of the ODI series against India in January 2026, and his recent performances have started a buzz over the internet as fans are wondering if he can get a stint during this year's IPL. Over the three matches of the ODI series, he scored 352 runs and showed his ability to deliver consistently against a high-quality Indian bowling attack.

His most influential knock came in the second ODI at Rajkot, where an unbeaten 131 from 117 deliveries formed the backbone of New Zealand’s successful chase of 286, allowing the visitors to draw the series. Daryl Mitchell maintained the same level of excellence in the deciding ODI at Indore, registering another century, his fourth in ODIs against India and his second consecutive during the series. His contribution was the key to securing New Zealand’s maiden bilateral ODI series victory in India.

With the kind of form he is in, he might get a chance during IPL 2026 as a replacement player for the Kolkata Knight Riders, who have an overseas slot open after the exclusion of Mustafizur Rahman due to political reasons.

Will Daryl Mitchell Play IPL 2026?

Despite entering the IPL 2026 mini-auction with an international reputation, Daryl Mitchell failed to attract any bids and remained unsold when the auction concluded in December 2025. This move was a bit surprising given he is one of the best batsmen in the world going around. Meanwhile, Kolkata Knight Riders have been forced into a squad reshuffle ahead of the new season following the removal of Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman.

Acting on directions from the BCCI, KKR officially released Mustafizur from their 2026 squad after a series of “recent developments”, while also granting the franchise permission to sign a replacement. Mustafizur, one of the best T20 bowlers in the world, had been signed for ₹9.2 crore, and his exclusion was a result of political sensitivities and public debate surrounding his participation, which ultimately led to the BCCI stepping in.

With an overseas slot now vacant, speculation has increased around Daryl Mitchell IPL team 2026, as KKR could potentially use the Registered Available Player Pool or opt for a late replacement in their squad. In this scenario, Mitchell’s name has gained interest among fans as his proven ability at the international level makes him a credible option should KKR, or any other franchise, look to add an overseas batter before the tournament begins.

How did Mustafizur Rahman Controversy Begin?

A fresh update has come to light regarding the situation that led to Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman being dropped from KKR squad for IPL 2026. According to reports, Rahman was given the option to legally challenge KKR over his sudden removal, which was said to be driven by non-sporting factors.

However, the left-arm pacer chose not to pursue the matter further. Mohammad Mithun, President of the Cricketers’ Welfare Association of Bangladesh (CWAB), disclosed that the possibility of initiating legal proceedings against the franchise was discussed internally, but the idea was ultimately called off after Rahman made it clear that he did not want to escalate the issue.

As a result of his exclusion from the Indian Premier League, the government of Bangladesh has moved to halt the broadcast of the tournament across the country, showing its displeasure over the scenario. In a further escalation, the Bangladesh Cricket Board took the matter to the ICC, requesting that Bangladesh’s T20 World Cup fixtures scheduled in India be relocated to Sri Lanka, citing safety concerns.