Lahore Qalandars, the defending champions of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) this season, announced the signing of Bangladeshi star pacer Mustafizur Rahman for the 2026 edition. The announcement came after the bowlers’ debacle from the Indian Premier League 2026 (IPL 2026).
A few days after the announcement was made by the PSL franchise, doubts began to loom over Mustafizur Rahman’s availability due to various reasons. Regional tensions and duty for the Bangladesh national cricket team are two reasons that cast doubt on the fast bowler’s PSL 2026 fate.
Mustafizur Rahman was in the song in PSL 2026
Dispelling all possible doubts, Rehman has played 5 matches for Lahore Qalandars so far and has taken 6 wickets at an impressive economy rate of 7.17. But, there are still some doubts over his availability for the remainder of the season.
“Once a Qalandars, always a Qalandars. Mustafizur is not just a player; he is a brother, an important part of our family that never left. We are thrilled to welcome him back to our dressing room. His talent, experience and dedication will be invaluable as we aim to defend our title and make a statement in PSL 11,” said Qalandars owner Sameen Rana.
Will Bangladeshi fast bowlers play the remaining matches of PSL 2026?
There is no doubt that the Lahore-based franchise has been considering the fast bowler throughout the season as they look to defend their title. Amidst the current season, a big update has come regarding Mustafizur Rahman’s No Objection Certificate (NOC).
Geo TV Network’s sports correspondent Sohail Imran reported that the 30-year-old fast bowler was given the much-needed NOC from the Bangladesh Cricket Board in two separate phases for PSL 2026, as the Bangladesh cricket team will have to play a series against New Zealand.
“Lahore Qalandars fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman was granted NOC for the PSL in two phases by the Bangladesh Cricket Board due to national duty. After the ODI series against New Zealand, Mustafizur Rahman has received the NOC from April 24 to May 3, and he is available for Lahore Qalandars,” Imran told via ‘X’ post.
More than a year ago Getting a loan More than a year ago More than a year Already had no other problems for more than a year In the past few years Another year’s last year is over Another post 3 days before 24 weeks OK
– Sohail Imran (@sohailimrangeo) 22 April 2026
When will Rehman play next for Lahore?
Bangladesh are currently engaged in a white-ball series with the Kiwis. After the conclusion of the three-match ODI series, they will also compete in a three-match T20I series. The Bangladesh vs New Zealand white-ball series has started on April 17 and will continue till May 2.
As per the claims of the NOC period and the series schedules of both the Bangladesh national cricket team and the PSL team, Mustafizur Rahman will be available again for the franchise league from April 24. This means that the fast bowler will be available to play for Lahore Qalandars on April 25 when they take on Peshawar Zalmi at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. Currently, Lahore is at the fourth position in the PSL 2026 points table with 4 wins from 8 matches.
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