Though Saikia didn’t specify what the reason for the BCCI’s decision was, Indian news outlets over the past few days have reported Indian spiritual and political leaders as criticising KKR and their owner Shah Rukh Khan for including Mustafizur in their line-up at a time when, reportedly, Hindu minorities are being attacked in Bangladesh.
Mustafizur, who has played for Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), Mumbai Indians (MI), Rajasthan Royals (RR), Delhi Capitals (DC) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the past, has picked up 65 wickets in 60 matches overall in an IPL career that started in 2016.
He was acquired by KKR at the IPL auction late last year for INR 9.2 crore as the team refreshed their line-up, also adding Akash Deep, Sri Lanka’s Matheesha Pathirana and Australia allrounder Cameron Green, among others.
Mustafizur, the only Bangladesh cricketer to find an IPL team ahead of the 2026 season, is currently playing in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) for Rangpur Riders.
The BCB is expected to make a statement on the matter soon. ESPNcricinfo has also reached out to KKR for their reaction.
