New Delhi, Dec 22 (NationPress) Mohammad Izhar barely had a moment to relish his IPL dream becoming reality. As his name echoed during the IPL 2026 auction, the left-arm pacer from Birpur in Bihar’s Supaul district was already in a race against time - he had to board a bus for a six-hour journey to Patna for the Vijay Hazare Trophy camp.

"While the auction was taking place, I was at home with my brothers-in-law. I felt a mix of excitement and anxiety, wondering if my name would be called. When Mumbai Indians chose me, it brought a joy like no other," he shared in an exclusive interview with IANS.

Known for discovering hidden talents through an effective scouting system, the five-time champions used their limited budget in the IPL 2026 auction wisely, selecting Izhar for his base price of Rs 30 lakh, indicating they may have found another promising talent.

Even while engaged in trials with Kolkata Knight Riders, Izhar reflected on how Mumbai Indians showed remarkable patience. "Despite being a big franchise, they were incredibly humble. They waited for me to arrive for the trials, and when I did, they encouraged me to rest before bowling," he noted.

Izhar’s cricketing journey began in Birpur, where tennis ball cricket opened doors to greater aspirations. A chance encounter with his local mentor, Jaichand, led him to transition into leather ball cricket.

"Jaichand bhaiya and Birbal bhaiya introduced me to the leather ball, guiding me through the last 2-3 years. Initially, I struggled, but with their support, I quickly progressed and haven’t looked back since. Birbal bhaiya is a star bowler himself, and I learned a lot from both of them," he recounted.

Watching legendary fast bowlers such as Mitchell Starc, Shoaib Akhtar, and Brett Lee transformed Izhar’s casual interest into a deep passion for cricket. "Starc has always been my idol. Watching Akhtar and Lee take wickets fueled my desire to play cricket seriously. My initial goal wasn’t to play for India or be in the IPL, but as I progressed, those aspirations developed," he explained.

Like many young cricketers from smaller towns, Izhar faced challenges due to Bihar's limited cricketing infrastructure. However, his father's unwavering support was crucial in his journey.

"My father became my biggest supporter, recognizing my potential and ensuring I had everything I needed. He took care of me during my early days, even treating my bruises at home," he said.

The backing from the Bihar Cricket Association was equally vital, especially following a disappointing previous season. The confidence shown by BCA officials, including former President Rakesh Tiwari, helped Izhar regain his form.

"After a lackluster performance last year, I prepared early for this season, and the association's faith in me allowed me to rebuild my confidence. I am grateful for the opportunities that led to my IPL selection," he expressed.

“I performed well in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (taking nine wickets in five matches in Kolkata), where IPL scouts noticed me, invited me for trials, and now I’m set to play in the IPL.”

Izhar’s bowling repertoire includes inswing and outswing along with essential slower ball variations for T20 success. Bowling around 135 kmph, he acknowledges his game needs refinement, particularly in executing yorkers and achieving consistent swing.

"I have the yorker in my arsenal, but it requires polishing. My inswing and outswing aren’t perfect yet, and I constantly strive to improve my skills. There are also some variations of slower balls I need to refine," he added.

With an IPL contract secured, Izhar will learn from two masters - Trent Boult, whose left-arm swing mirrors his style, and Jasprit Bumrah, known for his deadly yorkers and control. "Boult bowls left-arm like me, and Bumrah's yorkers are lethal. I’m excited to learn from them," he stated.

For youngsters from modest cricketing backgrounds, Izhar’s success embodies the message: patience and perseverance trump the allure of quick success. His journey from tennis-ball games in Birpur to an IPL contract with MI exemplifies this belief.

"Focus on the process, work hard, and wait for the right moment. Success doesn’t come overnight; it takes time. Consistency and faith in yourself are key. When the time is right, your hard work will pay off," he advised.

Now on the brink of donning MI’s iconic blue and gold in IPL 2026, Izhar’s rise adds new energy to his burgeoning cricketing tale. It reiterates that with proper support, talent can flourish from cricket's most overlooked regions.