KKR Buys Mustafizur Rahman for Record ₹9.2 Crore

Bangladeshi pace sensation Mustafizur Rahman has set a new benchmark in the Indian Premier League (IPL) after being acquired by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for a staggering ₹9.2 crore in the latest auction. The left-arm fast bowler will now represent Shah Rukh Khan’s franchise, marking his sixth IPL team.

This record-breaking deal makes Mustafizur the most expensive Bangladeshi cricketer in IPL history. He had previously held the record himself when he last featured for Delhi Capitals, having been valued at ₹6 crore. On that occasion, he did not enter the auction; Delhi had signed him as a replacement for Australian batter Jack Fraser-McGurk, who withdrew from the tournament due to personal reasons.

The previous record for a Bangladeshi player bought through the auction was held by former captain Mashrafe Mortaza, who was purchased by Kolkata for USD 600,000—equivalent to ₹4.2 crore at the time. Mustafizur, with a base price of ₹2 crore, has now comfortably eclipsed that milestone.

KKR will be Mustafizur’s sixth IPL franchise, having previously played for Sunrisers Hyderabad, Mumbai Indians, Rajasthan Royals, Delhi Capitals, and Chennai Super Kings. Since making his IPL debut in 2016 with Sunrisers Hyderabad, the 30-year-old left-arm pacer has played 60 matches, claiming 65 wickets. Notably, he earned the Emerging Player of the Tournament award in his debut season after taking 17 wickets.

His arrival comes at a crucial time as Kolkata Knight Riders look to strengthen their bowling attack ahead of the upcoming IPL season. Mustafizur’s ability to swing the ball both ways and his knack for picking early wickets are expected to add significant value to the KKR lineup.

IPL Record-Breaking Auctions: Bangladeshi Players

PlayerIPL TeamYear PurchasedAuction Price (₹)Notes
Mustafizur RahmanKolkata Knight Riders20259.2 croreCurrent record for Bangladeshi players
Mustafizur RahmanDelhi Capitals20236 croreBought outside auction
Mashrafe MortazaKolkata Knight Riders20124.2 croreBought in auction; previous record

With his IPL journey spanning six franchises, Mustafizur continues to be a sought-after talent, bringing both experience and pace to any team he joins. His new record deal is a testament to his consistent performances and his status as one of Bangladesh’s finest exports to world cricket.

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