Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) is facing backlash over the signing of Bangladeshi pacer Mustafizur Rahman for 9.20 crore in the IPL 2026 auction. Critics, including political figures, have targeted franchise co-owner Shah Rukh Khan, calling him a 'traitor' due to escalating geopolitical tensions and reports of violence against minorities in Bangladesh. Protests and threats have emerged, arguing that investing in a Bangladeshi player is insensitive. KKR is owned by Knight Riders Sports Private Limited, a joint venture with Red Chillies Entertainment (majority owned by Shah Rukh Khan) and the Mehta Group.