Zimbabwe fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani has withdrawn from the Pakistan Super League to join Kolkata Knight Riders for IPL 2026. The 29-year-old informed Islamabad United of his decision after KKR confirmed the signing on Friday, March 13. Muzarabani replaces Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman, whose contract was terminated by KKR in December 2025 following BCCI directives amid political tensions between India and Bangladesh.
Mustafizur had been acquired for INR 9.20 crore at the IPL mini auction last year and has since been signed by Lahore Qalandars in the PSL.
Why Did Muzarabani Choose IPL Over PSL
Muzarabani had initially gone unsold at the PSL auction in February but was later brought in by Islamabad United as a direct replacement for West Indies pacer Shamar Joseph. However, the opportunity to play in the IPL proved too significant to turn down.
The towering 6 ft 8 inch quick is coming off a stellar T20 World Cup campaign where he claimed 13 wickets in six matches, finishing as the joint second highest wicket taker in the tournament. Only Jasprit Bumrah and Varun CV finished ahead of him.
This marks the second consecutive year a player has left a PSL commitment for the IPL. South Africa’s Corbin Bosch made the same move last season, leaving Peshawar Zalmi for Mumbai Indians, which resulted in a one-season PSL ban. Muzarabani could face a similar penalty.
What Muzarabani Brings to KKR’s Squad
| Format | Matches | Wickets | Economy |
|---|---|---|---|
| T20I | 89 | 106 | 7.24 |
Muzarabani brings considerable global T20 experience, having featured in the CPL, ILT20, PSL, and Vitality Blast. He was also part of RCB’s title-winning squad in IPL 2025 as a temporary replacement player.
He is scheduled to arrive in Kolkata on March 17 and join the squad ahead of KKR’s opening match against Mumbai Indians at Wankhede Stadium on March 29.
