Online Reporter
Zimpapers Sports Hub
ZIMBABWE fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani has been signed by three-time Indian Premier League champions Kolkata Knight Riders for this year’s edition of the lucrative cricket bash.
The franchise announced the signing yesterday after the fast bowler had pulled out of the Pakistan Super League, which will run concurrently.
He was picked at the 2026 IPL auction for approximately US$1,02 million.
The lanky fast bowler, who impressed in the T20 World Cup, brings significant experience and wicket-taking ability to KKR’s bowling attack.
Muzarabani was among the prominent bowlers in the recently-concluded T20 World Cup, finishing as the joint third-highest wicket-taker with 13 scalps as Zimbabwe made it to the Super Eights stage.
“KKR have signed Zimbabwe fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani to join the squad for the upcoming Indian Premier League 2026 season,” KKR said in a statement.
After going unsold in the IPL auction, Muzarabani signed with Islamabad United in the Pakistan Super League.
He had initially gone unsold in the PSL auction as well, but Islamabad approached him after releasing West Indies bowler Shamar Joseph amid controversy.
Impressed by his T20 World Cup performances, Kolkata Knight Riders eventually reached out to Muzarabani with a contract, which the Harare-born agreed to and withdrew from his Pakistan Super League contract.
“The 6 ft 8” right-arm quick has emerged as one of Zimbabwe’s leading pace bowlers in the shortest format, known for his steep bounce and ability to strike in key phases of the innings.”
“Muzarabani brings significant T20 experience, having claimed over 90 wickets in more than 80 T20 Internationals at an average of around 21, with best figures of 3/8.
“His pace and consistency across global leagues and international cricket add further depth to KKR’s pace attack heading into the season,” said the Kolkata Knight Riders in a statement.
The addition of Muzarabani to Kolkata Knight Riders’ bowling ranks follows the exit of Bangladesh left-arm pacer Mustafizur Rahman, who was released by the franchise last December.
Muzarabani is expected to join his teammates in Kolkata next Tuesday, ahead of the start of the IPL on March 28.
