The BCCI directed IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to release Bangladeshi bowler Mustafizur Rahman for the 2026 season, citing 'recent events' and indirect reference to anti-Bangladesh sentiment due to attacks on minorities. Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra supported the decision, calling Rahman 'collateral damage' and the move a 'flexing of muscles' by the BCCI, drawing parallels to the ban on Pakistani players. The decision, made after Rahman was signed, has sparked mixed reactions regarding hypocrisy and the consequences faced by individuals for national actions.