Mustafizur Rahman and the IPL logo NEW DELHI: Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman’s sudden ouster from Kolkata Knight Riders has been termed “unfortunate” by IPL chairman Arun Singh Dhumal. Mustafizur, who was bought for Rs 9.5 million ahead of the 2026 season, was released on instructions from the BCCI, sparking backlash and wider controversy.
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Mike Hussey admits CSK were outplayed after the batting collapse“I would just say it was unfortunate. Other than that, I don’t have much knowledge,” Dhumal told the Financial Times.The incident did not remain confined to the IPL as it was followed by a series of events that eventually led to Bangladesh being replaced by Scotland in the 2026 T20 World Cup. The episode also reignited discussions about how external factors sometimes influence decisions in cricket, especially in high-profile tournaments like the IPL.Addressing these concerns, Dhumal said: “I would say it’s unfortunate the way things are going at times. I don’t think the government has any interest or role to play in the day-to-day running of cricket. The government generally supports cricket.”KKR clarified that the move was not their own but was done as per guidelines. In an official statement, the franchise said, “Kolkata Knight Riders confirms that the BCCI/IPL as the IPL regulator has instructed it to release Mustafizur Rahman from the team ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season.“The release was made after due process and consultation… BCCI will allow Kolkata Knight Riders to replace players as per IPL regulations,” the statement added.Remaining hopeful for the future, Dhumal said, “But yes, sometimes events happen around us and decisions follow. I’m sure common sense will prevail and that won’t be the case in the future.”
