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KKR Signs Blessing Muzarabani to Replace Mustafizur Rahman: Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have made a significant change ahead of IPL 2026. Following the unavailability of Bangladeshi pacer Mustafizur Rahman, KKR have inducted Zimbabwean fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani into their squad.
Muzarabani has withdrawn his name from the Pakistan Super League (PSL) where he was set to represent Islamabad United, to seize this major opportunity. Let's explore why KKR have placed their trust in this player and take a look at Muzarabani's recent form.
Blessing Muzarabani: The Hero of the 2026 T20 World Cup
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Muzarabani recently impressed the entire cricketing world with his bowling prowess during the 2026 T20 World Cup, held in India and Sri Lanka. Thanks to his stellar performance, Zimbabwe defeated cricketing giants like Australia and Sri Lanka to secure a spot in the 'Super Eights' stage.
- Impressive Statistics: Muzarabani claimed 13 wickets across 6 matches during the World Cup.
- Bowling Under Pressure: He consistently troubled batsmen on the subcontinent pitches with his precise bounce and pace.
Choosing IPL Over PSL: A Blow to Islamabad United
Although Muzarabani went unsold during the PSL auction last month, Islamabad United subsequently signed him as a replacement for Shamar Joseph. However, the moment KKR came calling, Muzarabani prioritized the IPL.
He is expected to arrive in Kolkata on March 17 (Tuesday) and join the team.Also Read: IPL 2026: Top 5 Best Players Making Their Debut in the 19th Season
Why Blessing Muzarabani is Crucial for KKR’s Bowling Attack?
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There is currently a great deal of flux within KKR's bowling attack. There are two primary reasons behind the decision to include Muzarabani in the squad:
- Mustafizur Rahman’s Exclusion: KKR had signed Mustafizur for a hefty sum of ₹9.20 crore, but his contract ultimately had to be terminated.
- Matheesha Pathirana’s Injury: Sri Lanka's Matheesha Pathirana is still recovering from an injury (currently undergoing rehabilitation) that he sustained during the T20 World Cup. In this context, Muzarabani is expected to prove himself as a reliable option during the death overs.
IPL Experience and Remarkable T20 Career Records
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Interestingly, Muzarabani was associated with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) towards the end of the previous season. Although he did not get an opportunity to play, he was part of the historic squad that went on to win the IPL title.
Blessing Muzarabani’s T20 Career Stats
- Total Matches: 137
- Total Wickets: 155
- Average: 22.76
- Economy Rate: 7.35 (Excellent, considering his role in the Powerplay and Death Overs)
- Strike Rate: 18.50
Also Read: Top 5 Domestic Indian Players to Watch in IPL 2026
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