Patna: Two young cricketers from Bihar have achieved a major breakthrough at the IPL Auction 2026, showing how determination and hard work can change lives. Fast bowler Mohammad Izhar from Supaul and Sakib Hussain from Gopalganj were both bought for Rs 30 lakh each by top IPL teams. Izhar has been signed by Mumbai Indians, while Sakib will play for Sunrisers Hyderabad. For their families and home districts, this moment is being celebrated as a proud achievement and a sign that talent from Bihar can also shine on the biggest cricketing stage.
Mohammad Izhar’s journey into cricket was unexpected. He never planned to become a cricketer and once dreamed of becoming an engineer. While studying in Kishanganj in 2013, he casually watched children playing cricket, which slowly sparked his interest. After returning to his village due to family reasons, he again found himself drawn to the game while watching local boys play with a tennis ball. Encouraged by friends, Izhar began practising seriously and joined the Kosi Cricket Club, where he worked hard to improve his bowling.
Coming from a simple middle-class family, Izhar faced many challenges at home. His father, who worked as an imam and mosque teacher, wanted him to focus on studies and have a secure future. Cricket was not seen as a serious career option, and Izhar was often discouraged. Despite this, he continued to practise quietly, believing in himself. Over time, his father understood his son’s passion and decided to support him. Today, the same family that once worried about his choices now proudly celebrates his success.
A major turning point in Izhar’s career came when he was selected as a net bowler for Chennai Super Kings. There, he met former India captain MS Dhoni, whose advice left a lasting impact. Dhoni told him to stay patient and trust his hard work, reminding him that success comes at the right time. That advice boosted Izhar’s confidence. Now, wearing the Mumbai Indians jersey, he is preparing to share the dressing room with some of the world’s best fast bowlers, including Jasprit Bumrah.
Sakib Hussain’s story is also one of struggle and sacrifice. Growing up in a farming family in Gopalganj, his dream was to join the army. Cricket entered his life while he was running at the local Minj Stadium and watching other players train. Financial difficulties made the journey tough, and in his early days he did not even have proper shoes. Sakib has spoken about how his mother mortgaged her jewellery to support his cricket training, a sacrifice that kept him going during difficult times.
Despite facing mockery and doubt from people around him, Sakib remained focused on his goal. He started playing with a tennis ball and slowly worked his way up through discipline and dedication. His selection by Sunrisers Hyderabad has now changed his life and brought pride to his family. Together, the stories of Izhar and Sakib highlight not just personal success, but the quiet rise of cricketing talent from Bihar, powered by patience, sacrifice and belief.
