Mustafizur Rahman faces Death Threats over IPL 2026 participation; KKR’s ₹9.20 crore gamble in jeopardy

Religious leaders in Ujjain have issued warnings over Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman’s possible participation in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season. They have threatened to disrupt IPL matches, including storming stadiums and damaging pitches, if the Bangladeshi fast bowler is allowed to play.

Ties between India and Bangladesh have worsened in recent days due to rising tensions, reports of violence, and growing anger in India over events across the border. Kolkata Knight Riders signed Mustafizur Rahman for ₹9.2 crore during the mini auction. Mustafizur Rahman is the only Bangladeshi player picked for IPL 2026.

Anger Grows Over Mustafizur Rahman’s IPL Inclusion Amid Bangladesh Tensions

Anger has grown among fans over the inclusion of Mustafizur Rahman in the Indian Premier League. Many supporters want Kolkata Knight Riders to release the left-arm pacer, saying his presence is wrong given the current situation in Bangladesh.

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Several religious groups have also raised strong objections, as per Firstpost. Mahavir Nath, chief priest of the Rinmukteshwar Mahadev Temple in Ujjain, said their followers could take direct action if the player is allowed to be featured. They claim authorities are ignoring the persecution of Hindus in Bangladesh.

Other religious organizations have issued similar warnings. Some leaders have even said they could storm stadiums to stop matches involving the Bangladeshi cricketer, further increasing concerns around security and pressure on the franchise.

Why Religious Leaders Are Threatening to Disrupt the IPL

Religious leaders have threatened to disrupt the IPL after recent violent incidents in Bangladesh triggered anger and protests in India. On December 18, a 27-year-old Hindu garment worker was lynched in the Mymensingh district over alleged blasphemy claims.

A few days later, a 29-year-old man in Rajbari’s Pangsha area was attacked by villagers over extortion allegations and later died in the hospital.

These incidents have come at a time when Bangladesh is already facing political instability. The situation worsened after former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fled the country last year following attacks on her party offices and official residence. She was later given asylum by India.

After her exit, Bangladesh’s parliament was dissolved, and an interim government was formed. Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus was appointed to lead the transition. The country is now preparing for fresh elections, which are scheduled for February 2026.

Three Overseas Seamers KKR Could Consider as Possible Replacements for Mustafizur Rahman

If the BCCI decides to ban Bangladeshi players and Kolkata Knight Riders are forced to look for a replacement, there are a few overseas fast bowlers they could consider.

Alzarri Joseph has been doing fairly well in franchise cricket. The 29-year-old pacer took 4 wickets in 6 matches in CPL 2025 and followed it up with 12 wickets in 8 games in PSL 2025. He previously played IPL 2024 for RCB, where he picked up 1 wicket in 3 matches.

Jhye Richardson has struggled with injuries in recent years but has recently returned to action. He showed good signs by taking 2 wickets in the Boxing Day Test. Richardson played one match for the Delhi Capitals in IPL 2024 but went wicketless.

KKR could also look at Spencer Johnson, a bowler they released earlier due to fitness issues. Johnson played 4 matches in IPL 2025 and took 1 wicket. He is currently injured and missed the BBL, but if he recovers before IPL 2026, he could still be considered.

Also read: PCB to sell 2 new PSL teams for less than Rishabh Pant-Shreyas Iyer’s combined IPL salary