![BCCI members and Mustafizur Rahman [Source: AFP]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1775193509278_Jay Shah and Mustafizur Rahman.jpg)
BCCI members and Mustafizur Rahman [Source: AFP]
Kolkata Knight Riders have started their Indian Premier League 2026 campaign on a disappointing note. The team has lost its first two matches, and as a result, early pressure is already building.
At the same time, a fresh statement has come from the BCCI regarding Mustafizur Rahman, which has added another layer to the ongoing situation.
To begin with, Mustafizur Rahman was signed in December last year for Rs 9.20 crore. As a result, he became the most expensive Bangladeshi player in IPL history.
KKR released Mustafizur Rahman from their squad
However, things changed later. KKR had to release the left-arm fast bowler following a directive from the BCCI. This decision came during a period of tension between India and Bangladesh, which influenced cricket-related matters as well.
After Mustafizur Rahman was excluded, the Bangladesh Cricket Board reacted strongly. The board announced a boycott of the T20 World Cup 2026. In addition, they demanded that their matches be moved India due to security concerns.
Meanwhile, the International Cricket Council (ICC) reviewed the request. The governing body rejected it, and as a result, Bangladesh was replaced by Scotland in the tournament.
Following this development, Mustafizur Rahman shifted his focus to the Pakistan Super League (PSL 2026). He joined Lahore Qalandars for PKR 6.44 crore, which is around INR 2 crore.
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IPL chairman breaks silence
After a gap of three months, Arun Dhumal finally spoke about the Mustafizur Rahman situation. Notbaly, his comments came after several cricket legends critisised BCCI for this controversy.
He described the situation as unfortunate. In addition, he mentioned that he does not have full details about the matter. Furthermore, he explained that the government usually does not interfere in the daily functioning of cricket.
"It is unfortunate, I would say, the way things unfold at times. I do not think the government has any interest in or role to play in running cricket day to day. The government is supportive of cricket at large. But yes, sometimes events happen around us and decisions follow. I am sure good sense will prevail and that this will not be the case going forward," Arun Dhumal said.
KKR struggle in IPL 2026
Looking at their performances, KKR lost their first match to Mumbai Indians by six wickets. Even though Ajinkya Rahane and Angkrish Raghuvanshi showed strong effort, the team could not secure a win.
In the second match against Sunrisers Hyderabad, KKR faced another setback. The opposition set a target of 227 runs at Eden Gardens. In response, KKR managed only 161 runs in 16 overs. Although Raghuvanshi scored 52 runs off 29 balls and Rinku Singh contributed, the team was bowled out early.
KKR will next play against Punjab Kings on April 6 at Eden Gardens. This match will be important for the team to regain confidence.
On the other hand, Mustafizur Rahman is currently playing in PSL 2026. In two matches, he has taken two wickets with an economy rate of 4.87. In addition, he recently played an ODI series against Pakistan, where he picked up five wickets in three matches, including a three-wicket performance.
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.jpg?type=mq "Fakhar Zaman in trouble")
