Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman created history at the IPL 2026 auction in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday, becoming the most expensive Bangladeshi player ever after Kolkata Knight Riders secured his services for Rs 9.20 crore. A fierce bidding war underlined the enduring value of the left-arm seamer, whose unique cutters continue to trouble batters across formats.
Mustafizur also became the fifth Bangladeshi cricketer to represent the Knight Riders in the IPL. Mashrafe Mortaza opted for the franchise in 2009, while Shakib Al Hasan later enjoyed a successful stint, winning titles with the team in 2012 and 2014. Litton Das appeared in one match for the Knight Riders in 2023 before Mustafizur joined the franchise this time.
IPL 2026 Auction Update
Mustafizur entered the auction with a base price of Rs 2 crore and it didn’t take long for franchises to start circling. Delhi Capitals, the team he represented in IPL 2025 as a replacement for Jake Fraser-McGurk’s injury, opened the bidding.
Chennai Super Kings entered the fray early on, banking on their successful past association with the Bangladeshi pacer. A tense contest ensued as the price quickly rose to cross Rs 5 crore with DC and CSK deadlocked.
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Just as CSK seemed to have the upper hand at Rs 5.4 crore, Kolkata Knight Riders made a dramatic entry, changing the dynamics of the auction. CSK pushed hard, stretching the offer to Rs 7 crore and then beyond before pausing briefly to reconsider.
A quick discussion between head coach Stephen Fleming and CEO Kasi Viswanathan saw CSK make the final move and get an offer close to Rs 9 crore. However, KKR remained determined and secured the deal for Rs 9.20 crore, prompting CSK to withdraw.
MUSTAFIZUR SEPTEMBER IN IPL
In his 30s, Mustafizur brings rich experience and a proven pedigree. Since making his IPL debut in 2016, he has represented Sunrisers Hyderabad, Mumbai Indians, Rajasthan Royals, Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals. His first season remains iconic as he was named Rookie of the Tournament – becoming the first overseas cricketer to win the award.
Mustafizur’s numbers underline his influence. In 308 T20 matches, he took 387 wickets at an impressive economy rate of 7.43. In the IPL, he took 65 wickets from 60 matches at an economy of 8.13, including a four-wicket haul. For KKR, the acquisition of ‘The Fizz’ is not just a statement signing but a calculated investment in a bowler capable of turning games on his own.
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Issued by:
sabyasachi chowdhury
Published on:
December 16, 2025
