Mustafizur Rahman gets NOC clearance from BCB to join Delhi Capitals in IPL 2025

In a move that balances franchise cricket with national duty, Bangladesh pace spearhead Mustafizur Rahman has been cleared by the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) to join the Delhi Capitals for a short window in the final stretch of the IPL 2025 season.

The 29-year-old left-arm quick will be available from May 18 to 24, immediately after he represents Bangladesh in the opening T20I against the UAE on May 17 in Sharjah.

While the stint is brief, it couldn't come at a more crucial time for the Capitals. The franchise is clinging to playoff hopes in a season marred by uncertainty and player withdrawals. After the tournament was disrupted by geopolitical tensions following the Pahalgam terrorist attack on April 22, many foreign players returned home and did not come back. Delhi’s overseas roster took a hit with Mitchell Starc and Donovan Ferreira both opting out for personal reasons.

Mustafizur steps in as a replacement for Australian sensation Jake Fraser-McGurk, offering a much-needed boost to Delhi's bowling attack. Known for his deceptive cutters and calm under pressure, the "Fizz" could prove to be the X-factor in the Capitals' do-or-die games leading into the final league matches.

However, his stay will be short-lived. The BCB has made it clear: Mustafizur must report back for national duty ahead of a high-stakes five-match T20I series against Pakistan, which begins on May 25 in Faisalabad.

In its official statement, the BCB shared:

“The Bangladesh Cricket Board has granted a No Objection Certificate to national team pace bowler Mustafizur Rahman for his participation in the ongoing IPL 2025 in India for the period from 18 to 24 May, 2025. It may also be noted that Mustafizur is available for Bangladesh's first T20 international against the UAE, scheduled on 17 May 2025 in Sharjah.”

The decision reflects the board's willingness to support players' IPL opportunities while keeping the bigger national picture in focus. For Mustafizur, who has been a consistent performer in the IPL across multiple franchises, it’s another chance to deliver under pressure — and sharpen his form ahead of international duty.

For Delhi, every match is now a must-win, and having Mustafizur back, even for a few games, is a shot in the arm. With the playoffs within reach but far from guaranteed, the franchise will be hoping his experience and guile can help them sneak into the top four.