TV
Living in a small and unpainted rented accommodation in the Bhagat Mohalla of Veerpur in Supaul district of Bihar, 21-year-old fast bowler Mohammad Izhar’s mother had never thought that her son would once leave these modest premises and join alongside Mahendra Singh Dhoni to play for the Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2025.
During the IPL mega 2025 mega-auctions, CSK picked up Izhar and he is expected to debut in any of the upcoming matches even as he currently can be seen bowling to MS Dhoni in the practice nets. However, the journey from Bihar to Chepauk was one full of extreme struggles and family sacrifices.
A Family’s Sacrifice
Izhar’s father, Maulana Salauddin, juggles dual roles as a primary school teacher and mosque imam in Veerpur village while his mother, Shabnam, manages household expenses on a tight budget.
The family’s financial constraints forced Izhar to leave home at 17, renting a small room in Bhagat Mohalla, Veerpur, to train at the Kosi Cricket Club.
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Breaking Barriers
The young bowler’s talent earned him a place in Bihar’s Under-23 team. Last year, he was handpicked by the MRF Pace Foundation, a milestone that paved his path to IPL. Despite earning no salary as a net bowler unless specially hired by franchises, Izhar persisted.
“I had never thought about my son going to the IPL but he has earned this through sheer difficulties, hardships, and hard work. He now hopes to perform and one day plays for India in the international field, making the entire nation proud,” stated Izhar’s mother to ANI with a big smile regarding her son’s achievement and his bigger dream.
Izhar's younger brother also conveyed his feelings and hopes by stating, "I am extremely happy about his (Izhar's) CSK selection. I am sure he will play for India soon and make the entire country proud".
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IPL 2025 is slated to start from March 22 with the first match being played between RCB and KKR at Eden Gardens in Kolkata. Meanwhile, CSK will play their first match of this IPL season on March 23 against MI at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.
