New Delhi, Dec 22 (NationPress) Sakib Hussain was participating in the Vijay Hazare Trophy camp in Patna, Bihar, when Sunrisers Hyderabad selected him for his base price of Rs 30 lakh at the IPL 2026 auction. This selection signifies a new chapter in Hussain's IPL journey, as he is a right-arm pacer who celebrated championship success with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in 2024, despite not having played a single match.

"During the auction, we were at the Vijay Hazare Trophy camp in Patna. When SRH chose me, I felt elated because I had worked on my weaknesses during the IPL and applied those learnings in domestic matches. I ensured that I left no stone unturned in overcoming my deficiencies and aimed to perform well whenever given the opportunity in the tournament," Hussain shared in an exclusive interview with IANS.

His return to the IPL involved trials with Chennai Super Kings, Delhi Capitals, Rajasthan Royals, and KKR before being acquired by SRH in the auction. Shortly thereafter, he received an encouraging call from the franchise's bowling coach and former India pacer Varun Aaron.

"Varun Aaron advised me to prepare and emphasized the importance of hard work for success. Upon hearing this, I first expressed my gratitude to him and the SRH team for selecting me. He responded by saying that this is merely the reward for your dedication," Hussain recounted.

Although he did not play in IPL 2024, Hussain's experience with KKR was invaluable, as he learned from cricketing legends like Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, Rinku Singh, and coach Abhishek Nayar.

"They imparted many valuable lessons, including match preparation, adopting a different mindset on match day, and player evaluation techniques," he noted.

Hussain also realized while with KKR that raw physical talent isn't the only differentiator between good and great players at higher levels. "During my time at KKR, I learned that cricket is as much a mental game as it is physical. Those who think strategically perform better on the field. Everyone has talent, but the player who thinks critically and plans effectively excels. In the IPL, you must think and strategize consistently, sometimes altering your plan in an instant, which I learned how to do," he added.

Hussain's journey began at the Tunna Giri Cricket Academy in Gopalganj, where coach Robin Singh has been his unwavering support through various challenges.

"Individuals like Saket bhaiya and Kumar bhaiya at the academy have been instrumental in my development. Coach Robin Singh is the most significant influence in my life. He has supported me during both triumphs and setbacks," he expressed.

He also acknowledged the leadership of Bihar Cricket Association - President Harsh Vardhan, Rakesh Tiwari, and Secretary Rahul - for paving the way for a small-town cricketer like him to reach the highest levels of the sport. "They have played a crucial role in my journey from a small town to such a prominent platform. Their support has been tremendous, and I thank them sincerely," he added.

As he prepares for his time with SRH, Hussain is excited to learn from captain Pat Cummins and other international stars in the squad. "In the IPL, having a good coach and mentor is invaluable. However, the main focus is on seizing every opportunity to enhance your skills. The Hyderabad team includes many legendary players like skipper Pat Cummins, from whom I will learn significantly and carry those lessons forward," he stated.

His rapid pace in domestic games piqued the interest of IPL scouts, particularly highlighted by a stunning 10-wicket haul against Arunachal Pradesh in the first half of the Ranji Trophy and six wickets in Bihar’s Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy league matches in Kolkata.

"In matches, I keep my approach straightforward and concentrate on what I need to achieve - making timely breakthroughs. It also aids my performance that I remain focused on the present and do not dwell on the future during matches," he elaborated.

Hussain’s comeback to the IPL mirrors a broader revival in Bihar cricket, with players like Vaibhav Suryavanshi and fellow pacer Mohammad Izhar securing IPL contracts as well. "Bihar is brimming with talent, as we see with players like me, Vaibhav, and Izhar, and the cricketing environment here is thriving, leading to the emergence of many more talented players in the future," he commented.

Having relished the thrill of an IPL title with KKR, Hussain concluded by expressing his eagerness to replicate that success with SRH. "Certainly, we will strive to be a winning team in IPL next year. It would be fantastic to showcase a trophy picture on my Instagram profile again. I am keen to learn extensively and aim to win the trophy for SRH this time around," he affirmed.