Zimbabwe fast bowler withdraws from Islamabad United as KKR confirm signing ahead of IPL 2026 season

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Zimbabwe fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani has withdrawn from the 2026 edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) after securing a contract with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the Indian Premier League (IPL). The development comes after Muzarabani informed Islamabad United of his decision, with KKR officially confirming the signing on Friday.

Muzarabani joins the IPL franchise after KKR were instructed by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in December to release Bangladesh left-arm pacer Mustafizur Rahman. Mustafizur had been purchased at the 2026 IPL auction for INR 9.2 crore (approximately USD 1.02 million). The Bangladesh quick has since signed with Lahore Qalandars for the PSL season, which begins on March 26—just two days before the start of the IPL.

Interestingly, Muzarabani was initially unsold at the PSL auction held on February 11. However, Islamabad United later secured his services through a direct signing after releasing West Indies fast bowler Shamar Joseph from their squad.

With the IPL and PSL running simultaneously for the second consecutive year, player withdrawals due to scheduling conflicts have become more common. A similar situation occurred last season when South African allrounder Corbin Bosch, who had been signed as a Diamond pick by Peshawar Zalmi, joined Mumbai Indians as an injury replacement in the IPL. Bosch’s decision resulted in a one-season ban from the PSL. It remains unclear whether a similar penalty will apply to Muzarabani, and ESPNcricinfo has reportedly contacted the PSL authorities for clarification.

Muzarabani’s rise in T20 cricket has been impressive, especially following his standout performances at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. The Zimbabwe pacer played a key role as Zimbabwe national cricket team topped their group and progressed to the Super Eight stage. He finished the tournament with 13 wickets in six matches, narrowly missing out on being the joint-highest wicket-taker. Four of those wickets came in a dominant victory against Australia national cricket team, highlighting his ability to deliver on the biggest stage.

KKR will hope Muzarabani’s pace, bounce, and recent form add extra firepower to their bowling attack as they prepare for the upcoming IPL season.