‘BCCI knows what needs to be done’, says Mohammad Kaif on Mustafizur Rahman issue after Bangladesh violence

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): During the IPL 2026 auction, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) bought Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman for ₹9.20 crore. However, after incidents of violence against Hindus in Bangladesh, several religious and social organisations in India criticised KKR’s decision and launched a campaign demanding that Mustafizur should not be allowed to play in the IPL.

Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif described the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) role as crucial in this matter. When asked about the Mustafizur Rahman issue during the ILT20, Kaif said that he had been in Dubai for the past two to three weeks and was not fully aware of the developments. He added that since the issue is sensitive, he would not give a personal opinion and that the final decision rests with the BCCI.

Kaif further stated that no decision should be taken in haste. He said everyone should wait and observe, as the BCCI manages a league of this scale and understands what decision needs to be taken and how it should be handled.

The controversy has intensified following recent incidents in Bangladesh. In Mymensingh district, a garment factory worker, Dipu Chandra Das, was lynched by a mob over alleged blasphemy, although he was later found innocent. A few days later, another Hindu youth was lynched in Hosendanga village of Kalimohar Union in Pangsha sub-district of Rajbari. These incidents have raised serious concerns over the safety of Hindus in Bangladesh and have negatively impacted India-Bangladesh relations.

Thirty-year-old Mustafizur Rahman is one of Bangladesh’s leading fast bowlers and regularly plays in leagues across the world. He has been part of the IPL since 2016 and has previously represented Sunrisers Hyderabad, Mumbai Indians, Rajasthan Royals, Delhi Capitals, and Chennai Super Kings. In 60 IPL matches, he has taken 65 wickets.