Mustafizur Rahman, Nahid Rana among seven Bangladesh players registered for IPL 2027 auction

Seven Bangladesh cricketers have registered for the IPL 2027 mini-auction scheduled for December 16 in Goa. The contingent comprises five fast bowlers—Mustafizur Rahman, Nahid Rana, Hasan Mahmud, Taskin Ahmed and Shoriful Islam—alongside all-rounder Rishad Hossain and batter Towhid Hridoy. Mustafizur's entry into the auction marks a significant development after his release from Kolkata Knight Riders in 2026, when the franchise had acquired him for Rs 9.20 crore before being directed to release him weeks later.

The Bangladesh Cricket Board confirmed the registrations through its cricket operations in-charge, Shahriar Nafees Ahmed. The BCB stated that eight players have completed their registration, with the cut-off date set for November 23, while several others were still considering their participation as the deadline approached.

"It is a regular procedure for the IPL auction. Like every time, this year too, the BCCI has sent us a link, inviting the players to register for the tournament. Since the cut-off is November 23, eight of our players have sent in their registrations, while a few others, too, are considering," Nafees was quoted as saying by Sportstar.

The 2026 season saw significant tension between Indian and Bangladesh cricket authorities. Kolkata Knight Riders released Mustafizur Rahman following a directive from the Board of Control for Cricket in India, which came amid escalating political tensions between the two nations. Bangladesh's withdrawal from the T20 World Cup earlier that year had further strained bilateral relations between the boards.

"The relationship between the two boards has always been very good and cordial, and we have always maintained that. Yes, there was a hiccup last year, but that’s all in the past now. We now share a very good relationship with the BCCI and both the boards want to play good cricket and develop more talents," Nafees said.

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Board relations improving after last year's tensions

Franchise interest in Bangladesh players remains uncertain despite the BCB's optimistic messaging. Several IPL teams have signalled they would prefer to await formal clarity from the BCCI before committing to recruitment decisions involving Bangladesh cricketers. This cautious approach reflects the lingering uncertainty from last year's political situation and the absence of explicit assurance from Indian cricket authorities regarding Bangladesh player participation.

Discussions between BCCI officials and Bangladesh Cricket Board president Tamim Iqbal, currently attending an ICC meeting in Bali, could provide the clarity franchises are seeking. The outcome of those conversations may determine whether teams proceed with confidence in signing Bangladesh players for the 2027 season. Among the seven registered players, Towhid Hridoy stands as the sole specialist batter, while the remaining six are bowlers or all-rounders, reflecting the composition of Bangladesh's contingent for the auction.