LAHORE: Defending champions Lahore Qalandars have strengthened their squad for the upcoming Pakistan Super League (PSL) Season 11 by signing Bangladesh pace bowler Mustafizur Rahman as a direct pick.

The experienced left-arm fast bowler, who previously represented the Qalandars in 2016 and 2018, is set to return to the franchise for the 2026 edition after being signed for PKR 6.44 crore.

Welcoming Mustafizur back, Lahore Qalandars owner Sameen Rana described the signing as a homecoming.

“Once a Qalandar, always a Qalandar. Mustafizur is not just a player; he’s a brother and a key part of our family who never truly left,” Rana said.

“We are delighted to have him back in our dressing room. His talent, experience, and commitment will be invaluable as we look to defend our title and make a strong statement in PSL 11,” he added.

Earlier, the Qalandars had retained several core players, including captain Shaheen Afridi, top-order batter Abdullah Shafique, dynamic all-rounder Sikandar Raza, and promising youngster Mohammad Naeem, underlining their intent to maintain continuity in the squad.

Mustafizur’s return comes after a turbulent period for the bowler, who was released by Kolkata Knight Riders last month. The move was reportedly taken on directives from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), triggering controversy in Bangladesh.

The situation escalated after the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) reacted strongly to the development, eventually leading to Bangladesh’s national team opting not to travel to India for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026.

Following multiple meetings between the BCB and the International Cricket Council (ICC), Bangladesh were subsequently replaced by Scotland in the marquee tournament. Adding to the tension, Bangladesh’s government later announced a ban on the broadcast and coverage of the Indian Premier League (IPL) within the country.