KKR releases Rahman on BCCI instructions
Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman has been released by IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders after being instructed to do so by the Indian Cricket Board (BCCI) amid heightening diplomatic tensions between the two neighbouring countries. KKR had acquired the services of the 30-year-old left-armer for INR 9.20 crore from a base price of INR 2 crore after an intense bidding war with Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals at the players' auction last month.
Also, the worsening diplomatic relations between India and Bangladesh could put bilateral cricket between the two nations in cold storage for some time as the BCCI is unlikely to tour the neighbouring country despite the announcement of an engagement by the BCB. On Friday, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) said that a six-match white-ball series would be played in September. It even announced the dates, claiming to have consulted the BCCI.
"The BCCI has asked Kolkata Knight Riders to release Mustafizur Rahman from its squad. They can ask for replacement, if needed. And upon request, BCCI will allow a replacement player," BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia said. Asked why the BCCI has asked Kolkata Knight Riders to do so, he replied, "Because of recent developments all across."
In a statement, the franchise said it has released the player as instructed by the BCCI. "Kolkata Knight Riders confirms that BCCI/IPL as the regulator of IPL has instructed it to release Mustafizur Rahman from the squad ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season. "The release has been carried out following due process and consultations, upon the instruction of the Board of Control of Cricket in India," KKR said in a statement.Rahman has featured in eight IPL editions since 2016, missing the tournament only in 2019 and 2020. He has played for teams such as Sunrisers Hyderabad, Mumbai Indians, Delhi Capitals, Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals.The upcoming edition was going to be his first for three-time IPL winners KKR. Neither him, nor the Bangladesh Cricket Board have reacted to the development yet.
