Kaif Claims Blessing Muzarabani Would Have Fetched ₹20 Crore in IPL Auction After T20 World Cup Heroics
- Blessing Muzarabani has taken 9 wickets at 7.88 in the T20 World Cup group stage.
- Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif says Muzarabani could have fetched ₹20 crore+ in IPL 2026 auction.
- Muzarabani’s 4/17 vs Australia powered Zimbabwe to a historic win.
- The 6’8” pacer was part of RCB’s IPL 2025-winning squad as an injury replacement.
Zimbabwe’s towering fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani has emerged as one of the breakout stars of the ongoing ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, and former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif believes the pacer would have commanded a staggering ₹20 crore or more if the IPL 2026 auction had taken place after the global tournament.
Muzarabani has been sensational in the group stage, claiming nine wickets in three matches at a jaw-dropping average of 7.88 and an economy rate of 5.91. His performances have been instrumental in Zimbabwe’s stunning victories over Australia and Sri Lanka — two results that shook the tournament.
Historic Wins Powered by Muzarabani
Zimbabwe’s triumph over Australia will go down as one of their greatest white-ball victories. Muzarabani’s devastating spell of 4 for 17 dismantled the Australian top order, laying the foundation for a famous win.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Kaif highlighted the magnitude of Zimbabwe’s achievements:
“It is not an easy thing to defeat Australia and then Sri Lanka in their home. The match against Sri Lanka was a sellout one as well. To chase 179 on a slow pitch where Pakistan struggled to chase 176 shows Zimbabwe’s temperament.”
Muzarabani’s ability to operate effectively in all phases — with the new ball, through the middle overs, and at the death — has made him one of the most complete fast bowlers in the tournament.
“He Would Have Fetched ₹20 Crore” – Kaif
Kaif didn’t hold back in his assessment of Muzarabani’s market value in the IPL.
“Blessing Muzarabani is an exceptional bowler. He bowls in every phase of the game. He is six feet eight inches tall and uses that height brilliantly. If the IPL Auction were held after the World Cup, with the way he is bowling now, I can guarantee he would have fetched at least 20 crores. He is unlucky that the auction is already done.”
For context, Australian quicks Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc fetched ₹24.75 crore and ₹20.50 crore respectively in recent IPL auctions. Kaif even went a step further, suggesting Muzarabani could deliver more consistency than some established overseas stars.
“We have seen these Australian and New Zealand bowlers for a long time earning big money. What has Starc done apart from two important games? Muzarabani could do a better job than Starc.”
IPL Experience and Rising Stock
Muzarabani was part of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru squad that lifted the IPL 2025 trophy, joining the team as an injury replacement late in the tournament. Although he had limited opportunities, his current World Cup form has significantly boosted his profile among franchise scouts.
Standing at 6 feet 8 inches, Muzarabani combines steep bounce with late swing and clever variations — attributes that make him a rare commodity in T20 cricket.
Super 8 Challenge Awaits
Zimbabwe have now advanced to the Super 8 stage, where they are placed in Group 1 alongside India, South Africa, and the West Indies. With tougher contests ahead, Muzarabani’s performances will once again be crucial if Zimbabwe are to continue their dream run.
If he maintains this level of consistency, IPL franchises may already be planning aggressive bids in future auctions.
