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"Should consider it...": Saina Nehwal supports BCCI's decision to release Mustafizur Rahman

Sakshi Sharma

Saina Nehwal and Mustafizur Rahman (Source: AFP)Saina Nehwal and Mustafizur Rahman (Source: AFP)

Indian badminton legend Saina Nehwal has openly supported the Board of Control for Cricket in India after it instructed Kolkata Knight Riders to release Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman from their squad for the upcoming IPL 2026 season.

Mustafizur Rahman was bought by KKR for a massive ₹9.20 crore during the IPL mini-auction held in December, making him the most expensive Bangladeshi player in IPL history. His base price was ₹2 crore, and he was picked after a strong bidding war involving CSK and Delhi Capitals.

BCCI asks KKR to release Bangladeshi pacer

On Saturday, the BCCI directed KKR to release Mustafizur Rahman due to recent political and social developments in Bangladesh. 

Following the order, the franchise released the left-arm pacer and was assured that they would be allowed to sign a replacement player as per IPL rules.

BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed the decision, stating that the board had acted in light of 'recent developments' and would share more details regarding the replacement process soon. The cricket body made it clear that KKR would not suffer any disadvantage due to this decision.

BCB raises alarm over player safety

The move has caused strong reactions in Bangladesh. The BCB held an emergency meeting and expressed concerns about the safety of its players in India, especially in Kolkata, where Bangladesh are scheduled to play matches during the T20 World Cup 2026.

BCB officials said they are planning to formally write to the ICC, requesting that Bangladesh's matches be shifted from India to Sri Lanka. Bangladesh's sports adviser also hinted that IPL broadcasts could be stopped in the country.

 "We have three matches of the T20 World Cup in Kolkata, so we will write to the ICC regarding what has happened today."

Saina Nehwal backs BCCI decision to release Mustafizur

Amid the controversy, Saina Nehwal spoke in support of the BCCI while attending the 7th edition of the Ekal Run Marathon. She stressed that decisions taken by national sports bodies should be respected.

"The decision taken by the association should be considered final, and I support it," Nehwal told reporters as quoted by ANI.

She also highlighted the importance of promoting sports initiatives across India and said that sports organisations often have to take tough calls in the interest of safety and governance.