Former India star opens up on Mustafizur Rahman’s IPL 2026 exit

Former India all-rounder Madan Lal has alleged that external pressure played a decisive role in the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) directing Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to part ways with Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman ahead of the IPL 2026 season.

In a recent interaction, Madan Lal expressed concern over what he described as the increasing influence of politics on sport, arguing that cricketers were becoming unintended victims of larger geopolitical issues. According to him, the BCCI’s authority is such that no franchise, regardless of stature or ownership, is in a position to question its decisions.

He pointed out that the move came amid criticism of KKR and its co-owner Shah Rukh Khan for signing a Bangladeshi player at a time when reports of violence against Hindus in Bangladesh have triggered widespread outrage and debate in India.

“The BCCI has the final say, and no one can really oppose them—not even someone like Shah Rukh Khan,” Madan Lal said. “But it’s unfortunate to see politics creeping into cricket. I really worry about the direction sport is taking.”

Also Read: KKR asked to release Mustafizur Rahman from IPL 2026 squad amid political tensions

While acknowledging the seriousness of the incidents reported in Bangladesh, Madan Lal stressed that players should not be dragged into political controversies. “What has happened there is deeply distressing, but using players as tools in such situations is unfair. Sport should remain separate from politics,” he added.

Mustafizur Rahman, 30, had been snapped up by KKR for a hefty Rs 9.20 crore at last month’s IPL auction—more than four times his base price of Rs 2 crore—after a fierce bidding contest involving Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals. The left-arm pacer was expected to play a crucial role in strengthening KKR’s bowling lineup for the forthcoming season.