NEW DELHI: Zimbabwe fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani is embroiled in a fresh controversy after his representatives strongly challenged the Pakistan Super League’s decision to impose a two-year ban. Muzarabani, who is set to play for Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2026, was reportedly suspended for withdrawing from a PSL arrangement in order to pursue an IPL opportunity. His agency has now pushed back in clear terms, arguing that the punishment is not justified because the underlying claim of a binding agreement never held up.
Muzarabani had initially been viewed as a replacement signing for the PSL, with reports suggesting a Pakistan rupee 11 million arrangement before he shifted course to join KKR. He came into the Kolkata setup as a replacement for Mustafizur Rahman, a decision that drew disciplinary action in the PSL. The matter was led by PSL chief Mohsin Naqvi, who cited a breach of commitment. However, World Sports Xchange, the player’s agency, has rejected that reasoning and insisted the league’s basis for the ban is fundamentally flawed.
“No contract, no breach”: Muzarabani’s agency disputes the ban
In a detailed statement, the agency said Muzarabani had been approached by Islamabad United, but any understanding was conditional from the start. They noted that the arrangement depended on obtaining a No Objection Certificate from Zimbabwe Cricket. The agency stressed that an NOC of that nature can only be issued when there is a properly signed contract—something, they claim, was never provided.
“You simply cannot breach a contract you have never received,” the agency said, taking direct aim at the PSL’s explanation. In their view, the league is treating an expectation as if it were a formal commitment, and that mismatch is what makes the sanction excessive.
The agency also pointed to the timing of events, stating that when KKR contacted Muzarabani on February 27, there were no binding obligations stopping him from taking the IPL offer. They described the two-year ban as “incredibly excessive” and argued it does not align with how similar cases have been handled previously, especially those involving genuine contractual violations.
Calling the incident an administrative misstep, the representatives urged the PSL to “gracefully withdraw the ban” and remedy what they labelled as an error on the league’s part. Their position is that, without a signed agreement, there was no breach to begin with.
On-field impact continues despite the off-field dispute
While the dispute plays out away from the spotlight, Muzarabani has continued to find his rhythm on the field. After failing to take a wicket in his first appearance, he bounced back strongly by claiming four wickets against Sunrisers Hyderabad, reinforcing his value to KKR even as his opportunities have been limited so far.
