Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman has joined Lahore Qalandars in the Pakistan Super League for 2026. The direct signing follows his release from the Indian Premier League amid regional tensions. Announced on Thursday, the move costs PKR 64.4 million.
The signing of Mustafizur Rahman joins Lahore Qalandars highlights shifting dynamics in South Asian cricket. Amid disputes involving India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan, this deal underscores alliances and rivalries that affect leagues and international tournaments. It matters as it could influence player movements and board relations across the region.
Lahore Qalandars confirmed the agreement on Thursday, February 5, 2026. Mustafizur Rahman joins Lahore Qalandars for PSL 2026 Mustafizur at a fee of PKR 64.4 million (USD 230,000). This represents a 77 percent reduction from his IPL base price of USD 1 million. The Bangladesh Cricket Board had no immediate comment on the transfer.
PSL rules allow each franchise one direct signing before the main draft. Qalandars selected Mustafizur after IPL controversy forced his exit from Kolkata Knight Riders. The Board of Control for Cricket in India instructed KKR to release him on January 3, 2026 without explanation. Sources cite regional political tensions as the cause.
Mustafizur expressed enthusiasm in a team video. He said the return felt like coming home. Qalandars owner Sameen Rana praised the bowler. “Once a Qalandar always a Qalandar. Mustafizur is not just a player; he’s a brother a key part of our family who never left. His talent experience and dedication will be invaluable as we aim to defend our title.”
The deal revives Mustafizur’s link with Qalandars. He played for them in 2016 and 2018 taking 20 wickets in 17 matches. His cutters and variations suit T20 formats. In PSL he averaged 20.45 with an economy of 7.12.
Mustafizur PSL Shift Amid Tensions
Mustafizur after IPL controversy marks a pivot to Pakistan’s league. The IPL release sparked outrage in Bangladesh. The Bangladesh Cricket Board requested relocating their T20 World Cup matches from India to Sri Lanka citing security concerns. The International Cricket Council rejected this and excluded Bangladesh from the tournament.
Pakistan Cricket Board backed Bangladesh. They accused ICC of double standards. Pakistan’s government then directed their team not to face India in the T20 World Cup. The event starts on Saturday February 7 2026. Pakistan-India clashes generate significant revenue for ICC.
This Mustafizur PSL move aligns with broader South Asian cricket politics. Bangladesh and Pakistan have strengthened ties amid shared grievances against India. PSL commissioner Naila Bhatti welcomed the signing. She noted it enhances league diversity.
Data from PSL shows overseas players like Mustafizur boost viewership. In 2025 overseas pacers took 45 percent of wickets. Mustafizur’s inclusion could elevate Qalandars’ attack alongside Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf.
Background
Mustafizur Rahman debuted in 2015. He gained fame for off-cutters in T20s. In IPL he played for Sunrisers Hyderabad Mumbai Indians Rajasthan Royals and Delhi Capitals. He took 61 wickets in 48 matches at an average of 25.39.
The IPL controversy stems from regional issues. In December 2025 protests in Bangladesh led to government change. This strained India-Bangladesh relations. Extremist groups in India threatened Mustafizur’s participation. BCCI complied by ordering his release.
PSL began in 2016. It has grown to six teams with international stars. Lahore Qalandars won titles in 2022 2023 and 2025. They defend in 2026 from March 26 to May 3 across Lahore Multan and Karachi.
Mustafizur’s PSL history includes key spells. In 2016 he took 4 for 11 against Karachi Kings. His experience adds depth. Analysts predict he could claim 15 wickets in the season.
The signing reflects PSL’s appeal. Despite lower salaries than IPL it offers consistent play. PSL 2026 Mustafizur brings attention to the league. Viewership rose 20 percent last year per Nielsen data.
Bangladesh players in PSL include Shakib Al Hasan and Tamim Iqbal in past editions. Mustafizur after IPL controversy could encourage more cross-border moves.
ICC faces criticism over handling. Former players like Wasim Akram called for fair treatment. “Cricket should unite not divide” Akram said in a press release.
PSL 2026 Mustafizur Impact
Experts view this as a boost for Qalandars. Coach Aqib Javed highlighted Mustafizur’s death bowling. “He changes games in final overs.” The team aims for a fourth title.
Financially the deal is viable. PSL salary cap is PKR 200 million per team. Mustafizur’s fee fits within platinum category limits.
Comparisons to IPL show disparities. IPL minimum is USD 50,000 while PSL tops at USD 250,000. Yet PSL provides exposure in a competitive setup.
Fan reactions on social media are positive. Qalandars’ post garnered over 1,000 likes in hours. Supporters welcome the “Fizz” back.
What’s Next
The PSL draft occurs on Wednesday February 11 2026 in Lahore. Franchises will pick remaining players. Qalandars may seek batsmen to complement Mustafizur PSL addition.
T20 World Cup proceeds without Bangladesh. Pakistan faces Australia first. Outcomes could affect future tours.
Mustafizur prepares for PSL training camp in late February. His performance may influence Bangladesh’s bilateral series.
In conclusion this Mustafizur PSL signing strengthens Qalandars amid ongoing controversies.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, February 6th, 2026
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