New Delhi, 2 January: Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman has been included in the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) squad for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. Following reports of violence against Hindus in Bangladesh, there has been opposition to Rahman’s inclusion in the KKR team. Several social and religious groups have demanded that Rahman be removed from the squad and that no Bangladeshi players be allowed to participate in the IPL.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has declined to comment on the issue.
However, sources within the BCCI have confirmed that the Indian government has not issued any directive to exclude Bangladeshi players from the IPL. A BCCI official stated, “This matter is not in our hands. We have not received any instructions from the government to prevent Bangladeshi players from participating in the IPL. We cannot comment further at this time.”
The IPL 2026 auction was held on 16 December 2025, where KKR purchased Mustafizur Rahman for a substantial amount of ₹9.20 crore. This is the highest amount ever paid to a Bangladeshi player in the IPL. Questions have been raised about Rahman’s inclusion following the violent incidents against Hindus in Bangladesh.
Spiritual leader Devkinandan Thakur criticised KKR and its co-owner, Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan, for signing Rahman. He said that including a Bangladeshi player amid reports of atrocities against Hindus in the neighbouring country has upset followers of Hinduism and Sanatan Dharma.
Mustafizur Rahman, aged 30, has been playing in the IPL since 2016. He has previously represented Sunrisers Hyderabad, Mumbai Indians, Rajasthan Royals, Delhi Capitals, and Chennai Super Kings. In 60 matches so far, he has taken 65 wickets.
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My name is Bhupendra Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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