Who will replace Mustafizur Rahman in KKR? Top 3 candidates for IPL 2026

The Kolkata Knight Riders are moving quickly to replace Mustafizur Rahman after a BCCI mandate forced the franchise to release the Bangladesh pacer on Saturday.

The directive follows a record ₹9.20 crore purchase of Rahman in the December mini-auction. With the player now officially off the roster due to mounting geopolitical tensions, KKR has turned its attention to a shortlist of veterans, with Australian seamer Jason Behrendorff emerging as a top target.

According to team sources and league analysts, the Knight Riders are prioritising a left-arm overseas option to maintain the tactical variety Rahman was expected to provide.

The Top Replacement Options

Jason Behrendorff (Australia) The lanky Australian is the frontrunner to replace Mustafizur Rahman in the KKR squad. Behrendorff, who went unsold at his ₹1.5 crore base price, offers an elite Powerplay threat. While he lacks Rahman’s specific "death-over" cutters, his ability to swing the new ball at Eden Gardens makes him a high-value acquisition. He is currently in strong rhythm, playing for the Melbourne Renegades in the Big Bash League.

Fazalhaq Farooqi (Afghanistan) Farooqi is being scouted as a more "like-for-like" skill set replacement. The Afghan international excels in both the Powerplay and the death overs, mirroring Rahman’s utility. Farooqi has extensive experience in the IPL and recently dominated the ILT20 circuit.

Spencer Johnson (Australia) For a team seeking raw speed, Johnson is the wild card. Previously a member of the KKR roster, he can clock speeds of 150 kmph. His left-arm angle and bounce provide a more aggressive alternative to Behrendorff’s swing-heavy approach.

Financial and Tactical Impact

Under IPL rules, KKR will receive a full ₹9.20 crore refund, giving them the largest remaining purse to sign any player who went unsold in the 2026 auction.

"We are evaluating all left-arm options to ensure our bowling balance remains intact," a KKR official said on condition of anonymity. "Experience in Indian conditions is our primary filter."