Bangladesh cricket received a major boost from the IPL mini auction, as Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) secured fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman for ₹9.2 crore—making him the most expensive Bangladeshi player ever sold in IPL auction history.
Reacting to the news, Bangladesh Test captain Najmul Hossain Shanto said he was delighted and joked that he would try to get a “treat” from Mustafizur. The comment came during a light-hearted post-match press conference following a Victory Day friendly cricket match organised by the Cricketers’ Association of Bangladesh (CAB), where Shanto’s team lost to Mehedi Hasan Miraz’s side.
When journalists informed him of the auction price, Shanto said, “I heard about it and I’m really happy. I didn’t know the amount at first. This is very good news, and I think it should be presented to the public in the best possible way.” Asked whether he would ask Mustafizur for a treat, he replied jokingly, “I’ll try—but I don’t think he’ll give it. There’s some doubt.”
After confirming the signing, Kolkata Knight Riders shared a video message from Mustafizur on their official X account. In the clip, he said, “Hi KKR fans, I’m Mustafizur Rahman. I’m very happy and excited to be part of KKR. See you soon.”
Bangladesh fast bowler Nahid Rana was also included in the final IPL auction list but did not go under the hammer. Reacting to Mustafizur’s big deal, Nahid said he heard the news while batting and felt very happy for his teammate. Asked about the price, he confirmed it was ₹9.2 crore and added that he hopes to play in the IPL in the future.
Another Bangladesh pacer, Hasan Mahmud, said Mustafizur’s achievement was inspiring. “It feels great to see a current national team player earn such a big contract in the IPL. It’s definitely motivating for others,” he said, adding that Bangladeshi cricketers have the ability to succeed in franchise cricket and more opportunities will come.
Former Bangladesh captain Mashrafe Bin Mortaza congratulated Mustafizur in a Facebook post, noting that the contract amounts to approximately BDT 12.37 crore. He wrote that considering Mustafizur’s current form, the price was well deserved and expressed confidence that he would perform strongly.
Former pacer Rabiul Islam also praised Mustafizur on social media, calling him Bangladesh’s most expensive player in IPL history and extending heartfelt congratulations.
