PCB mulls legal action against Blessing Muzarabani over IPL contract
What's the story
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is mulling legal action against Zimbabwe pacer Blessing Muzarabani. The move comes after Muzarabani pulled out of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) at the last moment, opting for an Indian Premier League (IPL) contract instead. The tall speedster was picked by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Friday and will play for them in the upcoming 19th edition of IPL starting March 26.
Contract breach
Muzarabani was signed by Islamabad United for PKR 11 million
Muzarabani was earlier signed by Islamabad United for PKR 11 million. However, after being approached by the Indian franchise, he opted for the IPL contract over PSL. According to a report in Geo Super, the PCB is now considering legal action against the 29-year-old for breaching his contract with Islamabad United. This isn't the first time a player has chosen an IPL team over a PSL one while both tournaments were running simultaneously.
Historical context
Similar instances in the past
Last season, South Africa pacer Corbin Bosch was picked as a Diamond Pick by Peshawar Zalmi but later joined Mumbai Indians as an injury replacement. This year, Muzarabani was named Islamabad United's replacement for Shamar Joseph. However, his decision to join KKR instead has drawn the ire of PCB and could lead to legal action against him.
Player profile
T20 World Cup star for Zimbabwe
Muzarabani was Zimbabwe's star performer at the T20 World Cup, taking 13 wickets in six matches and finishing as the second-highest wicket-taker. His performance helped Zimbabwe top Group B and qualify for the Super 8s. He returned with four wickets against Australia, helping his team register an emphatic victory during the group stage.
Tournament timelines
IPL to begin on March 26
The PSL 2026 will begin on March 26. KKR will play their opening IPL match the next day against the five-time champions, the Mumbai Indians. The BCCI has announced only the schedule for the first 16 days, and remaining matches will be confirmed once Election Commission announces poll dates for West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Assam.