Mustafizur "The Fizz" Rahman claims IPL will be easier for him this time around

It is never easy for a young man from a small town in Khulna division coming to terms with the glitz and glamor of a high-profile league, let alone making a name for himself. However, Mustafizur Rahman, in spite of his language barrier and lack of exposure, against all odds, gained his nickname “the Fizz” during the course of the tournament as he proved to be a revelation in the league.

The batsmen had no answer to the subtle variations from the left-armer, especially during the death overs. He picked up as many as 17 wickets in the 16 matches he played, at a ridiculous economy of 6.90 in a high-scoring league. His spells proved to be detrimental for the oppositions, along with ample support from the likes of Ashish Nehra, Bhuveneshwar Kumar and Barinder Sran. This was the prime reason for Hyderabad’s success last year.

One year later, enter April 2017, a new talent has emerged from the west this time by the name of Rashid Khan. One can only imagine the havoc they can cause in tandem once the left-armer joins the team. Rashid Khan is currently battling with Tahir for the Purple Cap.

However, the Bangladeshi pacer who was the recipient of the Emerging Player of the tournament in the last edition of the IPL hopes that he would have a better season this year as he is accustomed to the thrills and grills of the league. In an interview with a reporter at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium, prior to his departure for the cash-rich league, he stated that “I will try to perform better than last time. I need everyone’s prayers so that I can do well”

He further added,”The last time I went there, everything was new to me. This time, I know the players, the grounds and even the dressing room. It will be a lot easier to play the IPL this time. If I get to play, I will try to give my best.”

Mustafizur is most likely to feature in today’s fixture against Mumbai Indians in their own backyard at Wankhede. Mumbai Indians will be elated after snatching victory against Knight Riders from the jaws of defeat, while Sunrisers will look to dominate the tournament with three straight wins.