Muzarabani replaces Mustafizur in KKR squad

Three-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) roped in Zimbabwe fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season, set to begin on 28 March.

The 29-year-old pacer comes in as a replacement for Bangladesh left-arm pacer Mustafizur Rahman, who was released by the franchise amid ongoing political tensions.

To seal the move, Muzarabani withdrew from his contract with Islamabad United ahead of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2026 season.

Confirming the signing on Friday, KKR highlighted the Zimbabwean’s rapid rise in T20 cricket.

“KKR have signed Zimbabwe fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani to join the squad for the upcoming TATA Indian Premier League 2026 season,” the franchise said in a statement, according to Indian media reports.

“The 6 ft 8 in right-arm quick has emerged as one of Zimbabwe’s leading pace bowlers in the shortest format, known for his steep bounce and ability to strike in key phases of the innings.”

Muzarabani impressed in the recently concluded ICC T20 World Cup 2026, picking up 13 wickets as Zimbabwe advanced to the Super 8 stage before bowing out.

The towering fast bowler brings significant experience, having taken over 90 wickets in more than 80 T20 Internationals at an average close to 21, with best figures of 3-8.

“His pace and consistency across global leagues and international cricket add further depth to KKR’s pace attack heading into the season,” the statement added.

Muzarabani is expected to arrive in Kolkata on 17 March to link up with the squad.

He becomes only the second player to pull out of an active PSL contract in favour of an IPL move. Last year, South African all-rounder Corbin Bosch did the same after joining the Mumbai Indians as a replacement for pacer Lizaad Williams.