Delhi Capitals’ signing of Bangladesh left-arm pacer Mustafizur Rahman for IPL 2025 has sparked a fresh controversy, with the BCB refusing to grant a No Objection Certificate (NOC) over conflicting international commitments.
The 29-year-old’s participation in DC’s playoff push remains uncertain, highlighting the BCB’s delicate balancing act between IPL demands and national team obligations. Follow BRG365 for more updates!
BCB’s Stance: National Duty Over Club Cricket
The BCB confirmed on Wednesday that Mustafizur boarded a flight to Dubai with the Bangladesh squad for their May 17-19 T20I series against UAE, despite DC’s announcement of his signing to replace injured Australian Jake Fraser-McGurk.
BCB CEO Nizamuddin Chowdhury stated, “We have not received any communication from IPL officials or Mustafizur regarding his NOC request.”
The pacer is also scheduled to join Bangladesh’s Pakistan tour starting May 25, clashing with DC’s remaining IPL fixtures (May 18, 21, 24).
The BCB’s hesitation stems from concerns over consistency. Two other Bangladesh players—Rishad Hossain and Nahid Rana—are part of the UAE tour squad after leaving the suspended Pakistan Super League (PSL).
Granting Mustafizur an NOC could pressure the BCB to release Hossain and Rana for the PSL, risking backlash from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
Mustafizur’s Uncertain Availability
DC, currently fifth in the IPL table (13 points), urgently needs Mustafizur to bolster their pace attack amid injuries to Mitchell Starc and Fraser-McGurk.
The franchise hopes he could join after Bangladesh’s UAE series, potentially playing three league games and playoffs.
However, Mustafizur’s delayed NOC request—he was informed of DC’s signing just hours before boarding his flight—complicates matters.
If released post-UAE series, Mustafizur would miss DC’s crucial May 18 clash against Gujarat Titans but could feature in the final two league games.
However, his availability for the playoffs (starting May 29) remains contingent on Bangladesh’s Pakistan tour schedule.
Geopolitical Tensions Complicate Matters
The BCB’s dilemma is exacerbated by recent India-Pakistan border tensions, which forced the IPL’s week-long suspension.
Given Bangladesh's upcoming Pakistan tour, the BCB is wary of diplomatic fallout, particularly with the PCB.
Players and staff have expressed safety concerns, further muddying Mustafizur’s IPL prospects.
A BCB official emphasized national commitment, stating, “We’re not blocking Mustafizur’s IPL return, but he must fulfill his duties first. Releasing him could set a precedent for PSL-bound players”.
Road Ahead for DC and Mustafizur
DC’s playoff hopes hinge on winning their remaining games, but Mustafizur’s absence could weaken their bowling depth.
The franchise already lacks Starc, leaving T Natarajan as the sole experienced left-arm pacer.
Meanwhile, Mustafizur’s IPL career stats (38 wickets in 38 matches) highlight his value, but his immediate future rests with Bangladesh’s UAE series.
The BCB is expected to decide Mustafizur’s fate by May 19, after Bangladesh’s second T20I.
If cleared, he could join DC in time for their May 21 clash against Mumbai Indians. However, the BCB’s priority remains avoiding conflicts with the PCB and BCCI, ensuring a diplomatic resolution.
Also Read: Mustafizur Rahman Returns to Delhi Capitals as Fraser-McGurk Exits IPL 2025
