Bangladesh left-arm pacer Mustafizur Rahman, nicknamed “The Fizz,” has entered the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2026 draft following his sudden release from Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) ahead of IPL 2026. The move comes amid BCCI directives and strained India-Bangladesh relations. The PSL confirmed his participation on social media, noting his potential to trouble batters in the upcoming season. Mustafizur joins the PSL 11 draft pool amid ongoing tensions between the ICC, BCCI, and BCB.
IPL 2026 Exit
KKR had secured Mustafizur for a record ₹9.20 crore in the December 2025 IPL mini-auction, outbidding franchises such as Delhi Capitals and Chennai Super Kings. However, BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia instructed the team to release him due to “recent developments” tied to political tensions in Bangladesh, including anti-India sentiments and attacks on minorities following Sheikh Hasina’s ouster. The decision was made at the highest levels of the BCCI without broader consultation, prompting Bangladesh to ban IPL telecasts and request changes to their T20 World Cup match schedule.
Salary Details
Mustafizur’s IPL deal of ₹9.20 crore (~$1.1 million) was a record for overseas pacers in the 2026 auction. His release came before the season began, with no compensation, as contracts allow franchise discretion. The BCCI cited “highest-level” decisions linked to the suspension of bilateral cricket.
PSL 2026 Entry
The PSL announced Mustafizur’s inclusion in the HBL PSL 11 draft pool, posting: “Batters better shake carefully… it’s going to Fizz.” No team has been confirmed yet, with the draft still to take place. Mustafizur had previously been selected by Lahore Qalandars in 2016 but missed out due to injury and board concerns. His return nearly a decade later adds significant star power to the league, joining players like David Warner, who have moved between leagues.
PSL Salary Expectations
Mustafizur is expected to qualify for the PSL Platinum tier, with base salaries set at PKR 2 crore (~₹2.57 crore) and top picks potentially earning up to PKR 2.1 crore (~₹2.70 crore). While prior PSL stints offered lower fees, his IPL success boosts his value. Pakistani fans have hailed his entry as a “masterstroke” following his controversial IPL exit.
