.jpg?type=hq)
Mustafizur Rahman for Chennai Super Kings - (Source: AFP)
On Tuesday, December 16, 369 players were up for sale, out of which only 77 slots were filled during IPL 2026 mini-auction. Eyes were on KKR as they entered the event with the biggest purse value of 63.4 crores.
As expected, the Knight Riders picked some of the best buys as they roped in Cameron Green for a whopping 25.20 crores, Matheesha Pathirana for 18 crores and Mustafizur Rahman for 9.20 crores.
BCB Director speaks on Bangladesh player availability
The addition of three overseas stars has suddenly bolstered Knight Riders' squad ahead of the upcoming season. However, the three-time winners have dealt a slight blow as a report mentioned that Mustafizur Rahman is expected to miss a few games.
Notably, the 19th edition of IPL is expected to run from March 26 to May 31. However, a report from India Today mentioned a quote from Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) director and Cricket Operations Committee chairman Nazmul Abedeen Fahim stating that Rahman might miss a few games because of international duty.
Rahman likely to fly back home for the New Zealand series
Bangladesh are all set to host New Zealand for the crucial three-match ODIs from April 16 to 23. Thus, Rahman is expected to miss KKR's matches during that period and will miss a game or two.
There is no official confirmation from the BCB or KKR about the left-arm seamer's availability, but Bangladesh fear missing automatic qualification for the 2027 ODI World Cup, which is why Mustafizur's presence is of utmost importance for Bangladesh cricket.
Mustafizur Rahman, the only Bangladesh star in IPL 2026
For the unversed, Rahman is the only player from Bangladesh to find a buyer during IPL 2026 mini-auction. Therefore, no other team apart from KKR will face the issue of their stars missing a few IPL games.
Notably, KKR have a long history of success with Bangladesh talents in the team and would hope for the same with Fizz in the team.
.jpg?type=mq "RCB strongest XI")
