Mustafizur Rahman is a Bangladeshi international cricketer and left-arm fast-medium bowler known for his deceptive cutters and early breakthroughs in limited-overs cricket. A left-handed lower-order batter, his primary role is as a strike bowler. Rahman is renowned for his ability to bowl tight lines and take wickets in pressure situations, making him a key component of Bangladesh’s pace attack. He has also featured in various T20 franchise leagues, including the Indian Premier League (IPL) with multiple franchises.
Rahman made his T20I debut in April 2015 against Pakistan, followed by his ODI debut in June 2015 and Test debut in July 2015. He quickly made an impact on debut stages, becoming one of the few players to win Man of the Match awards on both his Test and ODI debuts. Over his career to late 2025, Rahman has been Bangladesh’s leading wicket-taker in T20Is, achieving over 150 T20I wickets and setting national records in the format.
Rahman’s ability to bowl cutters that deceive batsmen, particularly in limited-overs cricket, has made him effective in both powerplay and death overs, providing breakthroughs and controlling scoring rates for Bangladesh.
Rahman began his professional career in Bangladesh’s domestic circuit with Khulna Division and Mohammedan Sporting Club, progressing quickly through performances in first-class and List-A cricket.
In T20 franchise leagues, he has played for teams including Sunrisers Hyderabad, Sussex, Lahore Qalandars, Mumbai Indians, Rajasthan Royals, Chennai Super Kings, and Delhi Capitals in the IPL. In the IPL he has taken 65 wickets in 60 matches to date. Ahead of the 2026 season, he was acquired by Kolkata Knight Riders for ₹9.20 crore, making him one of the most valuable Bangladeshi players in the league before being released amidst political controversy.
Beyond the IPL, Rahman has played in T20 leagues such as the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) and other international competitions, showcasing his skills across diverse conditions.
Rahman’s bowling is characterised by deceptive slower cutters, variations, and control, attributes that make him particularly effective in limited-overs cricket where batsmen often attack sea-son fast bowlers. He combines pace with tactical use of variation to disrupt timing, often yielding breakthroughs against aggressive batting line-ups.
His nickname “The Fizz” reflects his impactful style, especially his ability to alter pace and deceive batters with cutters that move off the seam or change direction late.
Mustafizur Rahman is one of Bangladesh’s premier fast bowlers of the modern era, known for his variation, control, and wicket-taking ability, particularly in limited-overs cricket. His international success, franchise participation, and key bowling achievements have made him a central figure for Bangladesh and a respected pace bowler globally.