The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are currently grappling with a severe digital backlash that has seen their social media following decimated in record time. Following a formal directive from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the franchise was compelled to release the Bangladeshi pace sensation Mustafizur Rahman just weeks after securing him for a staggering ₹9.20 crore. This sudden termination, rooted in heightening diplomatic tensions, has sparked a “Great Unfollow” campaign that has already stripped the team of over a million followers across major platforms.
For a franchise that has long marketed itself as the “home team” for millions of fans in Dhaka and Chittagong—a bond dating back to the legendary tenure of Shakib Al Hasan—this rupture feels deeply personal. Mustafizur, known globally as the “Cutter Master,” was expected to be the crown jewel of the KKR bowling attack for the 2026 season. However, his release has transformed a once-loyal fanbase into a vocal opposition, with many supporters viewing the move as a direct slight against Bangladeshi cricketing dignity.
Impact of the “Great Unfollow” Campaign
| Social Media Platform | Follower Peak (Dec 2025) | Current Follower Count | Estimated Total Loss |
| 18.0 Million | 17.0 Million | 1,000,000 | |
| 8.0 Million | 7.1 Million | 900,000 | |
| Engagement Rate | High/Positive | Falling/Hostile | Significant |
| Hashtag Activity | #AmiKKR | #BoycottKKR | Trend: Aggressive |
The fallout has extended far beyond mere numbers on a screen. Bangladesh’s sports authorities have condemned the move, with reports suggesting a potential ban on IPL broadcasts within the country. The digital exodus represents a significant commercial threat to KKR, as their sponsorship valuations are intrinsically tied to their reach in the South Asian subcontinent. By losing a million active users in a matter of days, the franchise faces a diminished market presence that could take years to rebuild.
As KKR management begins the search for a replacement player to fill the void left by Mustafizur, the atmosphere remains charged. While the BCCI has granted the team permission to sign a new overseas player, the emotional bridge between the Knight Riders and their Bangladeshi supporters appears to have been scorched. For now, the franchise must navigate a season where their loudest cheers may be replaced by a stony silence from across the border, proving that in the modern era, a team’s digital empire is only as strong as the loyalty of its most passionate fans.