Bangladesh left-arm fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman is set to make history by becoming the country’s first cricketer to feature in The Hundred, after receiving official clearance to participate in the entire tournament. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has granted the experienced pacer a No Objection Certificate (NOC), allowing him to represent Birmingham Phoenix throughout the competition without interruption.
A BCB official confirmed to Cricbuzz that Mustafizur has been issued an NOC covering the period from 20 July to 20 August. As a result, he will be available for the full sixth edition of The Hundred, which begins on 21 July, marking a significant milestone both for the player and for Bangladesh cricket.
Earlier this year, Birmingham Phoenix secured Mustafizur’s services in The Hundred draft at a reserve price of £100,000. His selection underlined his continued reputation as one of the world’s most dependable white-ball bowlers, particularly during the closing stages of an innings. Renowned for his deceptive slower deliveries, subtle variations and disciplined execution under pressure, the left-armer is expected to play a key role in Phoenix’s bowling attack.
Although this will be his first appearance in The Hundred, Mustafizur is no stranger to English conditions. He first played domestic cricket in England in 2016 when he joined Sussex for the T20 Blast. Since then, he has made several county cricket appearances, consistently earning praise for his skilful use of cutters and his ability to adapt to seaming conditions. That previous experience is expected to work in his favour as he adjusts to the unique 100-ball format.
The Hundred, introduced by the England and Wales Cricket Board, has rapidly established itself as one of the most prominent franchise competitions in world cricket. Featuring leading international stars alongside England’s finest domestic players, the tournament offers a high-quality platform for cricketers to showcase their abilities before a global audience. Mustafizur’s inclusion not only reflects his individual standing in international cricket but also represents another important step in the growing presence of Bangladeshi players in major overseas franchise leagues.
At present, Mustafizur is touring Zimbabwe with the Bangladesh national team. Bangladesh’s final Twenty20 International of the series is scheduled to be played in Bulawayo on 19 July. Once his international commitments conclude, he is expected to travel directly to England and link up with Birmingham Phoenix, giving him valuable time to settle into the squad and prepare before the tournament gets underway.
The BCB has also approved overseas participation for several other Bangladeshi cricketers. National team batter Parvez Hossain Emon will head to the Global Super League after completing the Zimbabwe T20I series, where he is set to represent Lahore Qalandars.
Fast bowler Hasan Mahmud has likewise been granted permission to continue his successful stint in England. He will play the final three group-stage matches of the T20 Blast for Kent Spitfires. Hasan has already impressed in the County Championship, claiming 12 wickets in just two matches for Kent, performances that have strengthened his growing reputation in English domestic cricket.
The increasing presence of Bangladeshi cricketers in overseas franchise tournaments and domestic competitions reflects the country’s expanding influence in world cricket. Regular exposure to different playing conditions, stronger opposition and varied tactical environments provides invaluable experience for players while enhancing Bangladesh’s profile on the international stage.
Mustafizur’s participation in The Hundred therefore carries significance beyond personal achievement. As the first Bangladeshi to compete in the tournament, his campaign will be followed with keen interest by supporters at home, while also serving as another landmark in Bangladesh’s continuing integration into the global franchise cricket landscape.