|| CF DESK ||

Bangladesh left-hand seamer Mustafizur Rahman has entered Indian Premier League (IPL) for the 2021 season. IPL first-time champion Rajasthan Royals bagged Mustafiz for the upcoming season. Bangladesh is scheduled to play a two-match Test series against Sri Lanka next April. However, the cutter could miss the series in order to play the IPL.

Mustafiz has not yet informed his decision to the board. Akram Khan, chairman of the BCB's cricket operations committee, said Mustafiz would also be given leave if he wanted. From now on, no cricketer will be forced to play for the country.

'If Mustafiz wants a leave, he will also be given it. Since he is a player of Bangladesh team, that’s why Shakib was granted leave, he will also get it. Shakib has given us a letter about the Test series. That’s why the board has decided to grant the leave.’ Akram said.

Akram added, "Two days ago, Shakib gave us a letter stating that he is interested in playing the IPL. He should be allowed to play in IPL.  There will be a Test series at that time. The Board decided to grant the leave. No one can be forced to play.”

Rajasthan Royals have signed Mustafiz at a base price of Rs 1 crore from the IPL auction on Thursday. Shakib Al Hasan was signed by his old franchise Kolkata Knight Riders for Rs 3 crore 20 lakh.