Will Mustafizur Rahman Play IPL 2026? This Indian Group Warns of Massive Protest

The 19th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 is returning soon, and the tentative date for the start of the league is said to be March 26. Reports suggest that the IPL committee has decided to hold the league's final on May 31, 2026. The mini auction of the richest cricket league in the world finished on December 16 in Abu Dhabi, with the teams buying the players as per their choice.

Out of the top players to be signed this season, it seems that Bangladeshi left-arm pacer Mustafizur Rahman might not be able to take part in the league despite being signed. Mustafizur's participation has elicited a wide range of reactions among fans. After his move to Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the IPL auction, fans have expressed their delight at his skills, although, some members of the communal groups have responded with a strong criticism.

Will Mustafizur Rahman Play IPL 2026?

While the cricketing discussions take place, Mustafizur Rahman IPL participation has also stirred an off-field controversy. Reports suggest that some religious groups in Ujjain opposed the Bangladeshi pacer's participation in the Indian Premier League and linked their protest to political and religious sentiments.

This incident has taken place after the Hindus in Bangladesh have faced violence recently with several atrocities on minorities reported. Mahavir Nath, chief priest of the Rinmukteshwar Mahadev Temple in Ujjain, has given statements and warnings to destroy the stadium pitches if Mustafizur participates in the tournament, which quickly circulated on social media. Most of the criticism is directed towards his identity and the fact that he is from Bangladesh, rather than his cricketing skills.

“Wherever the match is held, we will go there and protest. The reason is that anyone who buys Bangladeshi or Pakistani players or maintains relations with them will also be of a jihadi mindset, and Shri Akhand Parshuram Akhada will carry out opposition against them," read a statement.

Despite the criticism and outer noise, there has not been any official reaction or movement from the IPL authorities or Kolkata Knight Riders to suggest a change in his status. In fact, the league has always been clear about its position in separating cricket from external issues, and Mustafizur is still eligible to play under his contract.

KKR Sign Mustafizur Rahman in IPL Auction 2026

Bangladesh's ace bowler Mustafizur Rahman is a veteran when it comes to playing in the Indian Premier League (IPL). He has played for multiple franchises, including the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), and many more. Mustafizur Rahman IPL team is Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) currently, which signed him at a whopping amount of INR 9.20 crores.

Rahman has played in 60 matches and taken 65 wickets at an average of 28.44. He is considered as one of the best T20 bowlers in the world. The left-arm quick made his IPL debut in 2016, and since then, he has played in almost all the seasons. Hence, the KKR fans will be excited to welcome him into the side given his experience.