Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman is set for a new chapter in franchise cricket after being confirmed as a participant in the upcoming Pakistan Super League (PSL), following his release from Indian Premier League (IPL) side Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).
The development comes against the backdrop of escalating diplomatic and cricketing tensions between India and Bangladesh.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) made the announcement through the league's official PSL handle on X, even though the players' draft for the next season is yet to take place. Welcoming the left-arm pacer, the league posted, "Batters better shake carefully. its going to Fizz in the #NewEra. Mustafizur Rahman joins HBL PSL 11!"
The statement all but confirms Mustafizur's
involvement in the league, marking a high-profile addition to the PSL roster.
Mustafizur's move follows his sudden exit from KKR, who had secured the Bangladesh international at the IPL auction last month. The defending champions had gone all out to rope in the 30-year-old, paying Rs 9.20 crore after a fierce bidding battle involving Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals. His base price was Rs 2 crore, underlining how highly franchises rated his skillset, particularly in the death overs.
However, the situation changed rapidly after the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) directed KKR to release the pacer. While the Indian board has clarified that KKR will be permitted to sign a replacement player if they choose to do so, Mustafizur's departure has had wider ramifications beyond the IPL.
The episode has further strained cricketing ties between the two countries. In response, Bangladesh has indefinitely suspended the telecast of IPL matches within the country. Adding to the fallout, the Bangladesh Cricket Board has taken a strong stance on international commitments as well. The board announced that it will "not travel to India" for the Men's T20 World Cup scheduled next month and formally urged the ICC to "consider relocating Bangladesh's matches outside India. "
For Mustafizur, the PSL now offers an opportunity to stay active at the highest level of franchise cricket despite the uncertainty surrounding his IPL future. Known globally as 'The Fizz' for his deceptive cutters and variations, the left-armer remains one of Bangladesh's most valuable white-ball assets.
While the larger geopolitical and administrative issues continue to unfold, Mustafizur's confirmed presence in the PSL ensures his skills will remain on display, even as his unexpected IPL exit continues to dominate headlines across the cricketing world.
