During the IPL 2025 season, when the tournament was on its mid-way, political tension between India and Pakistan affected the tournament. After the Operation Sindoor, the tournament went for a precautionary halt for the safety of all related to an IPL match. Ahead of IPL 2026, some incidents in Bangladesh create some tensions as well.

Why there is demand to band the KKR pacer?

Relations between India and Bangladesh are not particularly cordial. Despite this, Bangladeshi fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman was purchased by the Kolkata Knight Riders for ā‚¹9.20 crore in the IPL 2026 mini-auction. KKR faced trolling at that time as well. However, relations have deteriorated further in the last few days, leading to calls for a ban on Rahman from playing in the 2026 IPL. The BCCI is closely monitoring the situation.

Anti-India rhetoric is currently circulating in Bangladesh, which has prompted the Indian public to respond. This has led to calls for a ban on Mustafizur Rahman. Speaking to media, a BCCI official said, “We must understand this is a delicate situation. We are always in touch with the government on the evolving diplomatic situation, and we haven’t heard anything that would force us to ban Bangladeshi players. So, yes, Mustafizur will play in the IPL. Bangladesh is not an enemy country.”

Mustafizur Rahman has played 60 matches in the IPL so far, taking 65 wickets at an average of 28.45 and an economy rate of 8.13. Rahman’s prowess in the death overs is why he commanded a bid of ā‚¹9.20 crore.

However, KKR owner Shah Rukh Khan doesn’t want the situation between the two countries to escalate further, leading to a ban on Rahman. A ban on Mustafizur Rahman could deal a significant blow to KKR. Currently, the KKR team appears very strong, with a chance to lift their fourth IPL trophy.