Islamabad, May 25, 2025: In a historic feat for Bangladesh cricket, pace sensation Mustafizur Rahman has officially eclipsed veteran all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan to become the nation’s highest wicket-taker in the Indian Premier League (IPL).
The left-arm quick achieved this during Delhi Capitals’ electrifying encounter with Punjab Kings at Jaipur’s Sawai Mansingh Stadium on Friday night.
Mustafizur, widely known as “Fizz,” showcased his class with a disciplined spell, grabbing 3 wickets for 33 runs in four overs. This performance pushed his IPL tally to 65 wickets in 60 matches, overtaking Shakib’s previous record of 63 wickets in 70 games across nine seasons.
Breaking the Record in Style
Fizz started the night with 62 wickets and wasted no time leveling the tally—striking in his very first over. He dismissed Punjab opener Prabhsimran Singh, caught by Tristan Stubbs, who would go on to play a crucial role in all three dismissals.
Mustafizur then surpassed Shakib in the 16th over, sending Shashank Singh back to the pavilion, again caught by Stubbs. His final wicket came in the death overs as Marco Jansen edged one behind—Stubbs once more completing the catch.
Though he nearly bagged a fourth when Marcus Stoinis misjudged a pull, the opportunity was missed due to a fielding error between teammates.
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Match Recap and Impact
Despite Mustafizur’s heroics, Punjab Kings posted 206/8, a strong total under pressure. However, the Delhi Capitals chased it down effortlessly, sealing the win with three balls and six wickets to spare.
Mustafizur’s remarkable IPL comeback was brief but impactful. Joining Delhi Capitals late in the season, he played only three matches, finishing with four wickets. He now gears up to represent Bangladesh in a T20I series against Pakistan, marking another busy chapter in his international journey.
Context and Comparisons
Mustafizur’s rapid rise is notable—achieving this record in 10 fewer innings than Shakib. His IPL journey has been defined by injury setbacks and strategic team picks, yet his bowling brilliance continues to shine through.
Former cricketers and analysts have applauded the pacer’s milestone. “Fizz’s skill in the death overs is elite. He’s a match-winner,” said a former Bangladesh captain in a local sports panel.
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What’s Next for Fizz?
As Bangladesh prepares for its three-match T20I series in Pakistan, all eyes will be on Mustafizur to carry forward his IPL momentum onto the international stage. His ability to adapt and perform under pressure makes him an invaluable asset in the T20 format.
