Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman will not be part of IPL 2026, despite being selected in the mini-auction. The development comes after an official directive from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), which asked Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to release the left-arm pacer from their squad.
This clarification has put an end to speculation surrounding Mustafizur Rahman’s availability for the upcoming IPL season.
Mustafizur Rahman’s IPL 2026 Status: What’s Confirmed?
- KKR bought Mustafizur Rahman for ₹9.20 crore at the IPL 2026 mini-auction
- After the auction, BCCI instructed KKR to release the player.
- As a result, Mustafizur Rahman will not play IPL 2026
- There is no blanket ban on Bangladesh players in the IPL.
- The decision is player-specific, not country-specific
Why Did BCCI Ask KKR to Release Mustafizur Rahman?
The BCCI cited “recent developments” while communicating the decision to KKR. Although no detailed official explanation was released publicly, reports indicate the move was taken to avoid potential controversy and logistical complications ahead of the new IPL season.
According to sources familiar with the matter, the BCCI also clarified that:
- KKR will be allowed to sign a replacement overseas player
- Smooth functioning and stability of the league remains the top priority
- The decision was made in the interest of the tournament as a whole
Mustafizur Rahman’s IPL Career: Performance Overview
Despite missing IPL 2026, Mustafizur Rahman has built a respectable IPL career and remains one of Bangladesh’s most successful bowlers in the league.
| Category | Record |
| IPL Debut | 2016 |
| Matches Played | 60 |
| Wickets Taken | 65 |
| Economy Rate | 8.13 |
| Teams Represented | SRH, MI, RR, DC, CSK |
| IPL 2026 Status | Released by KKR |
His ability to bowl cutters and deliver under pressure has made him a valuable T20 asset over the years.
Will KKR Have to Pay Mustafizur Rahman His Full IPL Contract?
Since Mustafizur Rahman’s release happened due to official intervention, KKR is unlikely to pay the full ₹9.20 crore contract amount.
In such IPL contract scenarios:
- Exceptional cases are resolved through mutual settlement
- Franchises and players usually reach a professional agreement
- No legal or contractual dispute is expected
Is There a Ban on Bangladesh Players in IPL 2026?
No, there is no ban.
- The decision applies only to Mustafizur Rahman
- Other Bangladesh players can still be eligible for future IPL seasons
- Each case will be reviewed individually by IPL authorities
This is not a policy change regarding overseas players from Bangladesh.
What Does This Mean for IPL 2026?
- IPL 2026 will proceed as scheduled
- KKR can name a replacement overseas player
- Mustafizur Rahman will miss the entire season
- League authorities remain focused on player safety and operational stability
Final Summary
Mustafizur Rahman’s absence from IPL 2026 is a case-specific administrative decision, not a broader restriction on Bangladesh players. While his exclusion will disappoint fans, IPL authorities have emphasized that league stability and smooth operations come first.
The experienced Bangladesh pacer remains a proven IPL performer and could return in future seasons if circumstances allow.
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