Bangladeshi fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman has registered for the upcoming Pakistan Super League (PSL) draft. This follows his controversial release from the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the Indian Premier League (IPL).
KKR had purchased the 30-year-old left-arm pacer for INR 9.20 crore during December’s IPL mini-auction. He was the only Bangladeshi player signed for the season. However, the franchise released him after instructions from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia cited “recent developments” as the reason for the release but did not provide further details. Reports suggest the decision came after threats from hardline Hindutva activists against Bangladeshi cricketers. The activists also warned Bollywood star and KKR owner Shah Rukh Khan against including Bangladeshi players in his squad.
Following this controversy, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) banned IPL broadcasts in the country. The board has also requested the International Cricket Council (ICC) to move its T20 World Cup matches from India to Sri Lanka.
Mustafizur Rahman is widely regarded for his variations and death-over bowling. He has played in the IPL since 2016, representing teams including Sunrisers Hyderabad, Mumbai Indians, Rajasthan Royals, Delhi Capitals, and Chennai Super Kings. Over 60 IPL matches, he has taken 65 wickets at an economy rate of 8.13.
The Pakistan Super League confirmed that Mustafizur Rahman has officially registered for the draft, which is expected to take place soon. Previously, he played in the PSL for Lahore Qalandars, gaining significant experience in Pakistan’s premier T20 league.
Analysts believe his participation in the PSL will boost the quality of the tournament and provide him with a platform to continue competing at a high level. Fans are eagerly awaiting the draft, hoping to see the talented pacer in action once again.
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The move to PSL gives Mustafizur Rahman a chance to maintain his form and showcase his skills after missing the IPL season due to off-field controversies. His inclusion is expected to strengthen teams seeking experienced bowlers in the upcoming PSL edition.
