BCCI ordered KKR to release Mustafizur Rahman due to India-Bangladesh diplomatic tensions.

Citing recent diplomatic tensions between India and Bangladesh, the BCCI has ordered the Kolkata Knight Riders to release Bangladeshi fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman prior to the 2026 IPL season. After eight seasons with other teams, Rahman, who was purchased for Rs 9.20 crore, was scheduled to make his KKR debut. The decision comes after political turmoil in Bangladesh, including the removal of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and India's worries about the safety of minorities. The BCCI acknowledged that KKR may name a replacement but did not provide specifics. India is still not committed, so a planned white-ball series between the two countries has been postponed.