Mustafizur Rahman ruled out of IPL 2026: KKR has confirmed that Bangladesh's Mustafizur Rahman has been dropped from the team following instructions from the BCCI.
Who will replace Mustafizur Rahman in IPL 2026?
Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman has been ruled out of the IPL. Following instructions from the BCCI, Kolkata Knight Riders have released Mustafizur Rahman from their squad. KKR had bought the fast bowler for Rs 9.20 crore in the IPL 2026 auction.
According to IPL rules, KKR can now replace Mustafizur Rahman with a player who registered for the auction. These are the three strongest contenders to replace Mustafizur Rahman.
Fazalhaq Farooqi-
Afghanistan's left-arm fast bowler Fazalhaq Farooqi is the strongest contender to replace Mustafizur Rahman in the Kolkata Knight Riders team. Like Mustafizur Rahman, he is also a left-arm fast bowler and a skilled T20 bowler. Fazalhaq Farooqi swings the new ball both ways. Therefore, KKR might include this Afghan bowler in the team to replace Mustafizur Rahman. Fazalhaq Farooqi showcased his talent to the world by taking 24 wickets in the 2024 T20 World Cup.
Spencer Johnson-
KKR could also include Australian left-arm fast bowler Spencer Johnson in the team. Spencer Johnson is also a good option to replace Mustafizur Rahman. He is known for his pace and bounce. Spencer Johnson has previously played in the IPL for Gujarat Titans. After that, he played for KKR in IPL 2025. However, Spencer Johnson did not perform as expected in IPL 2025, and the franchise released him.
Alzarri Joseph-
West Indies' tall right-arm fast bowler Alzarri Joseph could also be a good option for KKR. Alzarri Joseph has played in the IPL before. He is an experienced fast bowler. Joseph has recently performed well in various leagues around the world. Therefore, KKR might consider bringing in this West Indian bowler as a replacement for Mustafizur Rahman.
