'Everyone knows who runs it...': Former KKR star takes shot at ICC & BCCI after Mustafizur Rahman's IPL exit

England all-rounder Moeen Ali has spoken out strongly in support of Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman after the left-arm pacer was released from the Indian Premier League (IPL) ahead of the 2026 season. Moeen said what should have been a big moment in Mustafizur’s career instead turned into a painful episode, especially for him.

Mustafizur was bought by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for Rs 9.2 crore at the IPL 2026 auction and was the only Bangladesh player to get a contract for this season. However, before the season could begin, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) instructed KKR to release him. No official reason was given, but the decision caused outrage in Bangladesh and sparked a wider controversy.

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Backing Mustafizur, Moeen said the pacer had earned his IPL contract through years of hard work and consistent performances. “I feel the worst for Mustafizur. He earned that contract through years of consistent performances. For his career, that was a massive opportunity. He could’ve played for any team, but it was KKR, and in truth, he’s the one suffering the most,” Moeen said.

The former KKR player also hinted that the issue went beyond just one cricketer. He said players from countries like Bangladesh and Pakistan often face such problems and claimed the situation cannot continue. “Something is clearly not right. This isn’t just about Mustafizur. Pakistan, Bangladesh, we all know there are ongoing issues. It can’t continue like this. These are big problems,” he added.

Moeen slams Jay Shah-led ICC

Moeen did not stop there. Without naming anyone, he took a swipe at the Jay Shah-led International Cricket Council (ICC) and the BCCI, questioning their duopoly in global cricket. “The ICC has never really been ideal. Everyone knows who runs it. Shouldn't countries like England and Australia play a role here? They don't say anything either. Everyone has their own agenda, and as long as they’re fine, they don’t care,” Moeen stated.

Following Mustafizur’s release, reactions in Bangladesh were strong. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) cancelled his No Objection Certificate (NOC), while the country’s information and broadcasting ministry banned the telecast of IPL 2026. The government said it was hurt and saddened by the BCCI’s decision, which it claimed had no logical explanation.

The situation escalated further when the BCB raised security concerns about travelling to India for the men’s T20 World Cup 2026 in February. The board requested the ICC to move Bangladesh’s matches out of India, but the apex body reportedly denied it. On January 8, the BCB sent a follow-up letter to the ICC, sharing their concerns in detail.

“The ICC wanted to know the areas of concern regarding security, and the BCB has cited them in detail,” news agency PTI quoted a source as saying.

Meanwhile, Mustafizur has found a new place to play after being released by KKR. The Pakistan Super League (PSL) confirmed his signing for the upcoming season and welcomed the left-arm pacer with a social media post.

It is believed that the BCCI’s decision to ask KKR to release Mustafizur was linked to recent attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh and the pressure that followed on Indian social media. However, no official statement has been issued by the BCCI regarding the rationale behind the big call.