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DHAKA, Dec 18, 2025 (BSS)— Pacer Mustafizur Rahman will return to Bangladesh amid the Indian Premier League (IPL) to participate in his side's crucial three-match ODI series against New Zealand. 

New Zealand are scheduled to visit Bangladesh in April next year for a series featuring three ODIs and as many T20 Internationals.

Speaking to the media today, Cricket Operations chairman Nazmul Abedeen Fahim confirmed that while Mustafizur will be allowed to skip the T20 series, he will rejoin the squad for the ODIs. 

He said apart from the ODI series, Mustafizur was granted NOC for entire IPL season.

These three ODI matches are vital for Bangladesh's chances of securing a direct qualification spot for the 2027 ICC World Cup, Fahim said.

“We know that qualifying directly for the World Cup is our priority, and we want to field a full-strength team,” said Fahim. “We cannot afford to take any risks in this regard. If we were in a secure position, we might have considered giving Mustafizur an NOC for the entire IPL tournament, but as we are not in a safe position, this decision was necessary,” he added.

Concerns about Bangladesh's direct qualification for the 2027 World Cup persist. To qualify directly, the team needs to be ranked at least 9th in the ICC rankings by February 15, 2027. Currently, Bangladesh are ranked 10th.

The 2026 IPL is set to begin on March 26, with the final scheduled for May 31.

Asked about the challenge of Mustafizur transitioning from the fast-paced T20 format to ODIs, Fahim expressed confidence in his ability to make an impact. “Coming from a highly competitive tournament like the IPL, Mustafizur will bring a higher level of intensity and skill,” he added. “We believe his presence will strengthen our side significantly.”

In the recent IPL mini-auction, Mustafizur was acquired by Kolkata Knight Riders for a substantial INR 9.2 crore, after a bidding war with Delhi Capitals and Chennai Super Kings.