Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman has reacted publicly to his release from the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season, admitting his disappointment but accepting the decision.
The 30-year-old left-arm pacer was released after the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) directed the franchise to part ways with him amid growing controversy surrounding his participation in the 19th edition of the IPL.
Speaking to BDCricTime, Mustafizur said, “If they release me, what can I do?” Reports suggest the Bangladesh international was left disappointed by the decision, which came against the backdrop of rising political tensions between India and Bangladesh.
Pressure had been mounting on both the BCCI and KKR following recent developments in Bangladesh, including the killing of a Hindu man, which sparked public outrage. Several groups also targeted KKR co-owner and Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan over the franchise’s decision to sign Mustafizur.
KKR had secured Mustafizur’s services for ₹9.20 crore at the players’ auction last month, significantly higher than his base price of ₹2 crore, following a bidding war involving Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals.
The BCCI later confirmed that KKR would be permitted to sign a replacement player if required for the tournament, which is scheduled to begin on March 26.
Also Read: ‘Bangladesh, not Pakistan’: Former BCCI official slams Mustafizur Rahman’s IPL exit
