The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) They are currently preparing for a PR storm Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season with Mustafizur Rahman in their ranks. While the player’s talent is undeniable, his inclusion has led to strong backlash directed at him. Shah Rukh Khan and KKR management.
The battle is not about talent or paperwork; this is almost entirely due to severe political instability and civil unrest in Bangladesh. Many fans and public figures saw the signing as insensitive, given reports of violence and targeting of minorities crossing the border. Critics argue that by investing a whopping ₹ 9.20 crore on the Bangladeshi star, the franchise is ignoring the prevailing national mood today. The political tussle has led to calls for boycotts and serious investigations, making Mustafizur’s existence a major point of contention for the 2026 campaign.
If Mustafizur Rahman misses out, KKR can replace 3 players
1. Fazalhaq Faruqi (Afghanistan)
Fazalhaq Faruki It has emerged as a world-class alternative carrying a more manageable base price of ₹2 crore. The left-arm Afghan pacer was the joint-highest wicket-taker T20 World Cup 2024with an astonishing 17 goal claims. His ability to swing the ball at 140 kmph makes him a lethal power play weapon and often takes wickets in the first innings.
Statistically, Farooqui averages 19.09 in T20Is, which proves his consistency against the world’s best batting line-ups in recent times. He offers the same left-arm angle as Mustafizur, but with a faster pace and a slower ball with a very deceptive backhand. The economy rate at the death has improved significantly under the guidance of specialists like Dwayne Bravo in various leagues.
For KKR, Farooqi provides an undisputed overseas slot, allowing the team to focus on on-field performance rather than political debates. He is a regular in the ILT20 and BBL and shows that his skills are transferable between different types of pitches and conditions. With over 150 T20 wickets in his career, he is no longer just a prospect but a proven match winner for any franchise.
2. Spencer Johnson (Australia)
Spencer Johnson represents the gold standard of left-arm fast bowling and is currently valued at a base price of ₹2 crore. The Australian speedster is known for his blistering pace, hitting the 148km/h mark consistently and scaring the first batters.
Johnson’s height allows him to make a steep jump off the surface, a luxury that the shorter Mustafizur simply cannot provide. in the year Big Bash League (BBL)he has been an outstanding performer helping his team win the title with his clinical death bowling. His T20 career strike rate is under 20, meaning he consistently provides the breakthroughs KKR need in the middle-order. Already played for Gujarat Titans and KKR, he is familiar with the Indian heat and the high-pressure environment of IPL matches.
He is also a better player in the depth than Mustafizur, often saving 5-10 runs per game with his elite athleticism. Like Johnson’s left arm angle, it’s a tactical nightmare for right-handed players Rohit Sharma or Virat Kohli in the power play. He is an ideal candidate to lead the KKR pace attack for the 2026 season, offering a blend of blistering pace and tactical intelligence.
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3. Jhye Richardson (Australia)
Jhye Richardson A tactical masterclass target for KKR, it is likely to be available at a very competitive base price of ₹1.5 crore. Despite being a right-hander, his slippery pace and 145 kmph speed make him one of the most difficult bowlers to read at the death. Richardson was once signed for ₹14 crore and his current low price makes him an absolute Moneyball steal for any side. He has a sensational T20 record, including a BBL season where he scored 29 wickets, proving his ability to dominate the entire tournament.
Richardson has a whipping arm movement that creates a deceptive pace, often turning Eden Gardens tracks slower, protecting corpses. His availability is quite stable and his focus is completely on T20 cricket after recovering from various minor injuries. By replacing a politically controversial figure with a high-profile Australian, KKR can effectively rehabilitate their public image before the start of the season.
Richardson is also a handy low-order batsman who can hit long sixes, adding depth to the KKR batting line-up. His ultimate economy rate has historically been around 8.50, which is excellent for high-scoring IPL bowlers.
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