The Delhi Capitals’ decision to sign Mustafizur Rahman as a replacement player in the IPL 2025 has sparked controversy, as the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has claimed they were not informed about the move. This potential scheduling conflict has once again highlighted the delicate balance between league commitments and international duties.
Delhi Capitals Announce Mustafizur as Replacement
On Wednesday, Delhi Capitals officially announced that Mustafizur Rahman would join their squad for the remainder of IPL 2025. He was signed as a replacement for Australian opener Jake Fraser-McGurk, who will be unavailable for the rest of the tournament.
Mustafizur, a veteran of the Indian Premier League, had previously played for DC in 2022 and 2023. The left-arm pacer has a notable IPL record with 38 wickets in 38 matches at an economy rate of 7.84.
BCB Responds: “No Official Communication Received”
However, BCB CEO Nizamuddin Chowdhury quickly responded to the news, stating that neither the board nor Mustafizur himself had communicated any departure plans for the IPL. As reported by ESPNcricinfo, Chowdhury emphasized that Mustafizur was expected to travel with the national team for their upcoming international series.
“Mustafizur is supposed to go with the team to the UAE according to the schedule. We have not received any communication from IPL officials or from Mustafizur either,” Chowdhury said.
Clashing Schedules: IPL vs Bangladesh International Tour
Bangladesh is scheduled to play two T20 internationals against the UAE on May 17 and 19, followed by a five-match T20I series against Pakistan on May 25, 27, 30, June 1, and 3.
Meanwhile, the Delhi Capitals are set to play crucial league matches on May 18, 21, and 24. If DC qualifies for the playoffs, Mustafizur would be required for the business end of the tournament, directly clashing with Bangladesh’s schedule.
Mustafizur’s IPL & T20 Profile
The 29-year-old has become a T20 specialist globally. In 106 T20Is for Bangladesh, he has taken 132 wickets. Across all T20 leagues and international fixtures, he has accumulated 351 wickets in 281 matches, underlining his prowess as one of the premier left-arm pacers.
In the IPL, his ability to deliver in all phases—especially at the death—has earned him multiple contracts with franchises including Sunrisers Hyderabad, Rajasthan Royals, Mumbai Indians, and now, Delhi Capitals.
Is a Bigger Conflict Brewing?
The situation raises larger questions about player availability and coordination between boards and franchises. The BCB’s lack of prior notification could lead to disciplinary action or withdrawal of No Objection Certificates (NOCs) if the issue escalates.
As of now, Mustafizur has not made a public statement, leaving uncertainty about whether he will represent Bangladesh or take part in the remaining IPL matches for Delhi.
Conclusion: What’s Next for Mustafizur and Delhi Capitals?
This unfolding controversy could set a precedent for how national boards and franchise leagues communicate regarding player availability. For now, fans and team management alike are waiting to see whether Mustafizur will honor his national duty or return to the IPL stage.
For a complete overview of this season’s replacements, check out our Full List of IPL 2025 Player Replacements.
External Source: ESPNcricinfo
