KKR Identify Mustafizur Rahman’s Replacement For IPL 2026

Though the IPL 2026 is still a while away, franchises have already started shaping their squads. As is usually the case, IPL heats up pretty fast right at the start of the new year, and this season doesn’t differ too much. Some recent developments in cricketing relations between India and Bangladesh are finding direct meaning in team combinations, compelling key changes across franchises.

Mustafizur Rahman Released by KKR

The Kolkata Knight Riders have officially released the vastly expensive acquisition, Mustafizur Rahman, bought for ₹9.25 crore. This move follows the diktat from BCCI that Bangladeshi players cannot be a part of the IPL, which has made the franchises make necessary adjustments.

KKR have received approval from the BCCI to sign a replacement player, enabling the Kolkata-based franchise to maintain squad balance in front of IPL 2026.

Limited Options After the Mini-Auction

The fact that the last IPL auctions were mini-auctions means that the number of players readily available was already limited. The majority of potential players had already been picked by other franchises, and KKR would be selecting from amongst the remaining pool of unsold or replacement-eligible players. These circumstances have further made the process of finding KKR’s like-for-like successor even more urgent.

Jhye Richardson is another strong contender. One name that has been invariably associated with this team is that of Australian fast bowler, Jhye Richardson. He has just recovered from his injury and has successfully regained his place in the international arena.

Known for express pace and bounce
Recently cleared after surgery and recovery
Offers experience in both international and IPL cricket

Proven Record Against Virat Kohli

The skills of Jhye Richardson are also enhanced by his good performance against top-order batsmen. It is pertinent to note that he has gotten four wickets of Virat Kohli on four occasions in his T20 career, in which he has bagged three consecutive wickets in 2019 in the ODI series against Kohli.

Previous Experience in the IPL

Richardson also played in IPL in the past when Punjab picked him in 2021. There was a substantial amount involved in his purchase, but injuries marred his performance in the event. Possibly, he might be seeking a new beginning in the IPL 2026 season.

Australia’s Fast Bowling Tradition at KKR The Kolkata Knight Riders have a long list of supporting Australian fast bowlers. Legends and stars, including:

Brett Lee

Mitchell Johnson

Mitchell Starc

Spencer Johnson

have all represented the franchise. Adding Jhye Richardson would continue this legacy and strengthen KKR’s pace attack.

What This Means for KKR

Replacing Mustafizur Rahman is not just about filling a slot. For KKR to have balanced gameplay and to be able to win matches, Jhye Richardson would be a natural choice to replace him in IPL 2026. Jhye Richardson brings speed to KKR. He has sufficient exposure to play against world-class batsmen.