IPL Auction: Raised in Poverty, Now Supaul’s Mohammad Izhar Set to Play for Mumbai Indians — The Story of a ‘Lakh-Taka’ Son

Bihar has found yet another shining star in the Indian Premier League. Mohammad Izhar, a young fast bowler from the remote Thuthi village of Chhatapur block in Supaul district, has been picked by Mumbai Indians at the IPL auction for ₹30 lakh, turning years of struggle and hardship into a moment of pride and history for his family and region.

Izhar’s journey to the IPL has been anything but easy. Born into a deeply impoverished family, he grew up amid financial distress, social pressure and even resistance at home. Yet, driven by an unshakable belief in his talent, he chose the cricket field over the security of conventional education and employment.

A Childhood of Struggle and Determination

Izhar is a left-arm fast bowler, nurtured by adversity. His mother, Shabnam, recalls how neighbours often mocked his cricketing dreams. “People taunted him all the time,” she says, “but he always told me—one day, I will play international cricket.”

To chase that dream, Izhar left home at a young age and moved to Veerpur, where he trained at the Kosi Cricket Club. His family initially wanted him to focus on studies and secure a government job to support the household. His passion for cricket even led to conflicts at home, but Izhar remained resolute, choosing practice sessions over textbooks.

Slow Rise, Steady Progress

Izhar’s breakthrough came when he was selected at the state level during the 2019–20 season. From there, his career gathered momentum. In 2025, he was associated with Chennai Super Kings as a net bowler, gaining valuable exposure at the highest level of the game.

At just 21 years of age, Izhar recently made his domestic debut in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy against Chhattisgarh. His performance against Madhya Pradesh—where he claimed four wickets with sheer pace and control—announced his arrival and made selectors and franchises take notice.

From ‘Lakh-Taka’ Dreams to IPL Reality

For a family that once struggled for daily necessities, Izhar’s ₹30 lakh IPL contract is life-changing. Locals proudly call him the “lakh-taka son”—a symbol of hope for thousands of youngsters growing up in Bihar’s villages with limited resources but limitless dreams.

With his selection by Mumbai Indians, one of the most successful franchises in IPL history, Mohammad Izhar has not only secured his future but has also proven that talent, perseverance and courage can overcome poverty and opposition.

Today, the boy who once faced taunts and hardship stands on the threshold of India’s biggest cricketing stage—an inspiration for an entire generation dreaming beyond their circumstances.