Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) owner Shah Rukh Khan has faced mounting criticism following the franchise’s decision to sign Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season.
The controversy intensified after political leaders and religious figures in India publicly objected to the move, according to multiple Indian media reports.
Amid the growing backlash, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) directed KKR to release Mustafizur from their squad for the upcoming season.
Confirming the development, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia said the instruction was issued in light of “recent developments that are going on all across.” He added that KKR would be permitted to name a replacement player if it chooses to do so.
Reports said KKR had acquired Mustafizur during the December auction for INR 92 million. The signing drew sharp criticism from several quarters, with detractors alleging that the decision went against what they described as “national sentiments.” Some commentators linked their opposition to broader political and religious tensions involving Bangladesh.
Hindu spiritual leader Jagadguru Swami Rambhadracharya was quoted as calling Shah Rukh Khan a “traitor” for approving the signing, while religious figure Devkinandan Thakur also criticised the move and demanded it be reversed. Thakur reportedly connected his objections to alleged violence against Hindus in Bangladesh, calling for financial support to affected families.
Political reactions were also reported. Leaders from Shiv Sena (UBT) described Bangladeshis as “enemies” and urged KKR to prioritise Indian players. Party leader Sanjay Nirupam said the central government should intervene, warning that the actor could face sustained targeting if the decision was not reversed.
Other responses included remarks from Maharashtra Minority Commission Chairman Pyare Khan, who appealed for strong measures to protect minority communities, and BJP leader Sangeet Som, who also used harsh language while opposing the signing.
The episode has sparked debate over the intersection of sport, politics, and national sentiment, placing KKR and its high-profile owner under intense public scrutiny ahead of the IPL 2026 season.
