Izhar’s talent earned him a spot in Bihar’s Under-23 team. As per Odishatv, he was handpicked by the MRF Pace Foundation last year, which followed him to the cash-rich IPL. However, despite receiving no remuneration as a net bowler until now, Izhar never let go of his dream.

Chennai Super Kings, the five-time IPL champions, will kickstart their campaign against arch-rivals and five-time champions Mumbai Indians (MI) at the home arena of Chepauk Stadium on March 23. Ahead of their campaign, they have roped in the Bihar youngster as a net bowler, promising him the exposure and memories that could take him very far in his cricketing journey

Izhar's mother, Shabnam Khatun, was happy about her son's selection, saying to ANI, "We did not expect this. He faced a lot of struggles and hardships to reach here. We are really happy. He said that he will make us proud and my blessings are with them."

Izhar's brother, Saad Aalam also said he wants him to play for Team India. "We are happy for his selection. He has struggled a lot to get here," he added.

The bowler's uncle, Mohammed Jahangir, also said that Izhar always wanted to play cricket and worked really hard for his game. "He is my nephew and there is a lot of happiness about this within the family and community. He always wanted to play cricket. Despite us asking telling him not to play, he did not obey. He was chosen at the state level for Bihar in 2019-2020, and from then he kept progressing and a lot of people supported him. He studied and played cricket. We hope that he plays international cricket for India and makes us proud," he said.

(All quotes from ANI)