As Mumbai Indians (MI) Get ready for IPL 2026, a new name has quietly entered the limelight – and it comes with a strong endorsement.
“His slow ball can trouble even the best batsmen”: Irfan Pathan
Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan Young fast bowler has been selected Mohammad Izhar A player worth watching, who highlights his ability to trouble even top-class batsmen with his variations.
MI preparing for their season opener Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) At the Wankhede Stadium on March 29, the buzz around the team is not just about the established stars. Instead, it is also about emerging talent – and Izhar has attracted the attention of one of India’s sharpest cricketing minds.
Speaking about the young fast bowler, Pathan did not hold back from praising him.
“His slow ball can trouble even the best batsmen,” Irfan said emphatically as quoted by TOI.
Coming from a man who built his career on skillful swing bowling and tactical awareness, this praise carries serious significance. Pathan’s understanding of fast bowling – particularly the slower ball variety – makes his observations particularly valuable.
Izhar, although still uncapped in the IPL, has reportedly impressed the Mumbai Indians coaching staff during pre-season training. His ability to execute slower balls under pressure has emerged, a skill that often proves vital in T20 cricket, especially in the middle overs and at the death.
Will Mohammad Izhar get a chance in the star-studded MI pace attack?
Although Mohammad Izhar is still not a household name, his journey reflects Mumbai Indians’ strong reputation for discovering and nurturing fast bowling talent. Over the years, the franchise has built a legacy of identifying raw potential and converting it into world-class performances.
Jasprit Bumrah is a perfect example of this. Once an unknown prospect, he became one of the best fast bowlers in the world under the guidance of MI. The franchise has also played an important role in shaping players like Hardik and Krunal Pandya and giving them a platform to grow.
Now, Izhar may be next in line.
However, making a place in MI’s playing XI will not be easy. The team has a formidable fast bowling attack, which includes experienced names like Jasprit Bumrah, Trent Boult, Deepak Chahar and Reece Topley. Each of them brings a unique skill set, making competition for places intense.
But this also goes in favor of expression. Training with bowlers like Bumrah, who has mastered the art of slower balls, provides him the perfect environment to learn and develop. If he continues to impress, MI can use him as a surprise weapon, especially in situations where variation is important.
For MI, the upcoming season is about much more than rebuilding – they are chasing their sixth IPL title after a gap of five years. Their bowling attack will play a major role, especially at the Wankhede Stadium, where conditions often favor the batsmen and bowlers have to rely on clever variations to succeed.
This is where Izhar’s skill set can become valuable. A well-executed slower ball can change the course of the game, and if it lives up to the hype, MI may have uncovered another hidden gem.
Also read: IPL 2026 – Mumbai Indians respond to claims of Hardik Pandya issuing warning to Rohit Sharma
