Former India all-rounderMadan Lalhas alleged that external and political pressure played a decisive role in the BCCI directing Kolkata Knight Riders to part ways with Bangladesh fast bowlerMustafizur Rahmanahead of the 2026 Indian Premier League season.

Speaking on the issue, Madan Lal expressed concern over what he described as the growing intrusion of politics into sport. He argued that international cricketers were increasingly becoming collateral damage in broader geopolitical tensions, despite having no role in such disputes.

According to him, the authority of theBoard of Control for Cricket in Indiais such that no IPL franchise — regardless of ownership or stature — can challenge its decisions. “The BCCI has the final say, and no one can really oppose them — not even someone likeShah Rukh Khan,” Madan Lal said, referring to the Bollywood actor’s co-ownership of KKR.

He pointed out that the move came amid criticism directed at KKR for signing a Bangladeshi player at a time when reports of violence against Hindus in Bangladesh had sparked widespread outrage and debate in India.

While acknowledging the seriousness of the situation across the border, 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 picked up byKolkata Knight Ridersfor Rs 9.20 crore at the IPL 2026 mini-auction — more than four times his base price — following a bidding war involvingChennai Super KingsandDelhi Capitals. The left-arm pacer was expected to play a key role in bolstering KKR’s bowling attack before the sudden decision brought his campaign to an abrupt end.