Mustafizur Likely to Lose ₹9.2 Crore IPL Contract as Compensation Unlikely: Report

Bangladeshi fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman is unlikely to receive any financial compensation after being released by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on the directive of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), despite having no role in the circumstances that led to his contract termination.

Mustafizur was bought by KKR for ₹9.20 crore at the ipl auction following competitive bidding from Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals. However, the BCCI later instructed the franchise to release the player, citing “developments all around,” without providing a detailed explanation.

The episode has triggered debate over player rights, particularly because Mustafizur neither withdrew voluntarily from the tournament nor faced any disciplinary or professional misconduct charges.

According to sources familiar with IPL contracts, the existing insurance framework offers little scope for compensation in such cases. While all IPL players’ salaries are insured, the coverage is typically activated only in cases of injury or cricket-related reasons affecting participation.

“If a foreign player is injured during the tournament or after joining the camp, franchises generally pay, with insurance covering up to 50% of the cost,” an IPL insider told PTI on condition of anonymity. “Indian centrally contracted players have even stronger protection, as the BCCI usually steps in.”

However, Mustafizur’s case does not fall under standard insurance clauses. Since his release was not due to injury or a cricketing issue, KKR is under no contractual obligation to pay him any compensation.

“KKR is not legally bound to pay any amount because this situation is not covered by insurance. The only option available to the player is legal recourse,” the source said, adding that Indian law governs IPL contracts.

Taking the matter to court or approaching the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) is seen as highly unlikely. “No international cricketer would want to pursue that route,” the source noted.

The broader geopolitical context is also believed to be a deterrent. “The Indo-Bangladesh political situation is fluid and could change in the future. That uncertainty discourages legal action,” another source said.

As things stand, Mustafizur Rahman appears set to walk away empty-handed despite being a high-value signing and having a clean professional record—highlighting the gaps in player protection when administrative or political considerations override sporting ones.