Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman has finally spoken out after being removed from Indian Premier League 2026, following a directive issued by the Board of Control for Cricket in India. With calm honesty, Mustafizur admitted that the situation is beyond his control amid rising political tensions between India and Bangladesh.
“If they release me, there’s nothing much I can do,” Mustafizur told Bangladesh outlet BDCrictime, reflecting a resigned but composed stance on the sudden development.
What led to Mustafizur’s IPL 2026 exit
The left-arm seamer was picked up by Kolkata Knight Riders for a hefty ₹9.20 crore during the IPL 2026 mini-auction held in Abu Dhabi last month. However, his participation was cut short after the BCCI reportedly advised franchises to drop Bangladeshi players from the upcoming season in light of the ongoing diplomatic strain between the two countries.
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While the board has not released a detailed public statement naming individual players, multiple reports confirm that the decision affected Mustafizur’s IPL contract directly.
‘Nothing personal, it’s out of my hands’
Speaking after the news broke, Mustafizur made it clear that he does not hold any bitterness. The 30-year-old pacer said he understands the situation and views it as part of the uncertainty professional cricketers often face.
For a player who has seen highs and lows across leagues worldwide, the setback is disappointing but not unfamiliar. “These things happen in cricket,” sources close to the player said, adding that Mustafizur remains focused on international duties and other franchise opportunities.
A proven IPL performer
Mustafizur has been one of Bangladesh’s most consistent IPL exports, alongside Shakib Al Hasan. Known for his deceptive cutters and calm death-over bowling, he has represented franchises like Sunrisers Hyderabad, Mumbai Indians and Rajasthan Royals in previous seasons.
His strong IPL record was a key reason KKR invested heavily in him at the auction, especially with Eden Gardens traditionally offering assistance to bowlers who can vary pace.
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What this means for KKR and IPL 2026
KKR will now need to rework their overseas bowling plans ahead of the season, while the IPL loses another experienced international name from its roster. Whether franchises will be allowed replacement signings under special provisions remains unclear at this stage.
For Mustafizur, the focus shifts back to national commitments and other global T20 leagues, where his demand remains strong.
