LAHORE, Feb 5 — Defending Pakistan Super League champions Lahore Qalandars have signed Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman for PKR 6.44 crore ahead of the 11th edition of the PSL.

The left-arm pacer has been signed as a direct overseas pick under new PSL rules, which allow each franchise to recruit one foreign player outside the main auction budget. The move comes days before the PSL 11 player draft scheduled for February 11.

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Mustafizur, 30, is no stranger to Lahore Qalandars. He previously represented the franchise in 2016 and 2018, where he impressed with his slower balls and cutters, picking up four wickets in five matches. His return adds experience and variety to Lahore’s pace attack.

The Bangladeshi bowler is expected to partner captain Shaheen Afridi with the new ball, strengthening the team’s bowling as they aim to defend their PSL title.

Lahore Qalandars owner Sameen Rana said the decision was taken after consulting fans and team management, a move that was widely welcomed by supporters on social media. Fans also celebrated Mustafizur’s reunion with senior players, including Fakhar Zaman.

PSL 11 is expected to begin later this year, with franchises finalising their squads ahead of the auction. Lahore Qalandars will be looking to build on recent success as one of the most consistent teams in the league.