KKR Rope In Blessing Muzarabani For IPL 2026, Zimbabwe Speedster To Arrive In Kolkata On March 17

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have announced the signing of Zimbabwe fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani for IPL 2026. Muzarabani is regarded as one of the most promising prospects in world cricket currently and is expected to arrive in Kolkata on March 17, as per a KKR release.

KKR issued a statement on Friday. "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.”

The IPL 2024 champions badly needed some reinforcements after KKR released Mustafizur Rahman from the squad, while both Matheesha Pathirana and Harshit Rana are on the sidelines with injuries. Due to India's recent political tension with Bangladesh, the BCCI directed KKR to release Mustafizur ahead of IPL 2026. The Bangladesh pacer happened to be the most expensive player at the IPL auction.

KKR Likely To Be Without Harshit Rana and Matheesha Pathirana

Rana was ruled out of the T20 World Cup 2026 following an injury during India's warm-up match against South Africa and subsequently underwent surgery. Pathirana also had to be replaced after he suffered an injury during the recently concluded T20 World Cup 2026.

Muzarabani was roped in by Islamabad United but will not play for the PSL side as things stand. He helped Zimbabwe to get past the group stage and ended up picking 13 wickets in 6 T20 World Cup matches.

Also Read: Rajasthan Royals To Commence IPL 2026 Pre-season Training Camp In Jaipur On March 17