Online Reporter
KOLKATA. — Having warmed the bench at Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) last season, Blessing Muzarabani is keen to play as much as possible for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in IPL 2026.
Guided by KKR mentor Dwayne Bravo, Muzarabani believes that his IPL exposure will make him a better bowler. The 6’8’’ tall speedster acknowledged Bravo’s help.
“He has already told me a lot of things. Ever since I started playing, he has already given me a lot of information about my bowling and the kind of skills that I need to have, especially in T20 — how to practise and how to watch T20 cricket. I believe that at the end of the season, I’m going to be a different bowler,” said Muzarabani.
Following the exit of Bangladesh seamer Mustafizur Rahman, KKR got in touch with 29-year-old Muzarabani, who impressed everyone with his 13-wicket haul during the T20 World Cup, around Zimbabwe’s match against India in the global event.
“I want to play and perform. I just want to be here. I believe I am good enough. I was really happy to be in the RCB team and getting to see how the game is played and the tempo.
“I believe that IPL is probably tougher than international cricket. So, me being in RCB last year, I really saw how it’s played. This year, it’s just me adjusting.”Muzarabani loves the friendly atmosphere in the KKR’s team and the company of his pace colleagues.
“Guys are so hard-working. I’m a hard worker as well, but I’m really challenged with the guys, the way they work hard and how hungry they are to succeed. They’re really pushing me,” said Muzarabani.Meanwhile, a growing number of overseas players are weighing options between the IPL and the Pakistan Super League this season.
Decisions are being driven by playing opportunities, pay structures and the length of the tournaments.
Australia leg-spinner Adam Zampa opted out of the IPL auction after being released by Sunrisers Hyderabad.
Zampa, who has featured in five IPL seasons but played only 22 matches, cited concerns over limited returns for his role and the time commitment required for the tournament.
In the PSL, Zampa has joined Karachi Kings, where he has had regular game time in the season.
South Africa’s former captain Faf du Plessis has also chosen the PSL this year after deciding not to enter the IPL auction following 14 seasons in the tournament.His move reflected a shift among senior players looking for shorter commitments and different roles.
Several players have moved in the opposite direction.Muzarabani switched from a PSL contract with Islamabad United to join Kolkata Knight Riders as a replacement for Mustafizur Rahman.
Sri Lanka all-rounder Dasun Shanaka is set to link up with Rajasthan Royals, leaving his PSL stint with Lahore Qalandars to replace the injured Sam Curran. —sportstar.thehindu.com/thetelegraph.india.com
daniel chigunwe