KKR Advised to Sign Marco Jansen’s Twin Brother After Mustafizur Rahman Exit

KKR Told to Sign Marco Jansen’s Twin Brother as Replacement After Mustafizur Rahman Released From IPL 2026 Squad

Kolkata Knight Riders’ plans for the IPL 2026 season have been unexpectedly disrupted after the franchise was instructed to release Bangladeshi fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman from their squad. The left-arm pacer, who was bought for Rs 9.20 crore at the IPL 2026 auction in Abu Dhabi on December 16, 2025, will now miss the upcoming season following directives from the Board of Control for Cricket in India.

The decision came amid what officials described as “recent developments,” prompting the BCCI to ask KKR to part ways with the Bangladeshi international. The move has opened the door for the franchise to sign a replacement player ahead of the new season.

BCCI Allows KKR to Seek Replacement

Confirming the development, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia stated that the governing body has permitted KKR to sign a replacement player if they choose to do so. This clarification has given the franchise flexibility as they look to rebalance their squad composition before the tournament begins.

The exit of Mustafizur Rahman leaves a significant gap in KKR’s bowling unit. Known for his deceptive cutters and death-over expertise, Mustafizur was expected to play a crucial role in the 2026 campaign. His absence has now triggered discussions about potential like-for-like replacements.

Suggestion to Sign Marco Jansen’s Twin Brother

Former KKR and Bengal wicketkeeper-batter Shreevats Goswami has offered a bold suggestion to address the vacancy. According to Goswami, KKR should consider signing Duan Jansen, the twin brother of South Africa all-rounder Marco Jansen.

Goswami believes the move would be a smart tactical choice, pointing out that Duan Jansen offers similar attributes as a left-arm fast-bowling all-rounder and could also strengthen the team’s lower-order batting. His suggestion has sparked debate among fans and analysts, especially given Duan’s growing reputation in T20 cricket.

The idea of KKR Sign Marco Jansen’s twin brother has gained traction on social media, with many supporters seeing it as a like-for-like replacement option following Mustafizur Rahman’s departure.

Who Is Duan Jansen?

Duan Jansen is a 25-year-old fast-bowling all-rounder from Klerksdorp, South Africa. Like his brother Marco, he brings bounce, pace, and batting depth — qualities highly valued in the T20 format.

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Although he has had limited exposure in the IPL, Duan has previously featured in one match for the Mumbai Indians during the 2023 season. Since then, he has continued to build his credentials across various T20 leagues.

Currently, Duan Jansen is representing Joburg Super Kings in the SA20 2025–26 season. He made an immediate impact in his debut match for the side, claiming impressive figures of 4 for 23 in four overs against Pretoria Capitals and earning the Player of the Match award.

T20 Experience and Recent Form

Duan Jansen has played 48 T20 matches across multiple teams, including Mumbai Indians, MI Cape Town, Joburg Super Kings, St Kitts and Nevis Patriots, and North West. In those matches, he has taken 46 wickets and scored 329 runs, highlighting his all-round abilities.

His recent performances suggest he is entering a strong phase of his career, making him a timely option for a franchise seeking balance and depth. For KKR, who rely heavily on versatile overseas players, Duan could offer both bowling strength and batting insurance.

KKR’s Options After Mustafizur Rahman Exit

With several players still available for selection, KKR are not short of alternatives. However, the franchise will likely prioritize a player who fits their team combination and playing conditions at Eden Gardens.

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The suggestion to sign Duan Jansen aligns with KKR’s past strategy of investing in multi-dimensional overseas players. If the management decides to act on this advice, it could prove to be a calculated gamble with long-term benefits.

What Lies Ahead

As IPL 2026 preparations intensify, KKR’s decision on Mustafizur Rahman’s replacement will be closely watched. Whether they choose Duan Jansen or explore other options, the move will significantly influence their bowling attack for the season.

For now, the discussion around KKR Sign Marco Jansen’s twin brother continues to dominate cricket conversations, as fans wait to see how the franchise responds to this unexpected twist ahead of the tournament.

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