Mustafizur Rahman Reflects on His Experience with Chennai Super Kings

As his time with Chennai Super Kings comes to an end, Mustafizur Rahman is preparing to return to the national team. The left-arm pacer from Bangladesh has had a good season with his new team in the IPL. Chennai, with the energetic presence of Mahendra Singh Dhoni, clinched the championship title in the latest season. Mustafizur shared his feelings in a video released by his franchise.

Naturally, the conversation included MS Dhoni, along with various aspects of Mustafizur’s cricket journey. He spoke about his unique bowling techniques, like the cutter and the slower ball. He revealed an interesting story about his signature cutter: "Normally, I just bowl naturally. Nobody taught me the cutter. One day, I was bowling in the national team's net session, and Bijoy Bhai (Enamul Haque Bijoy) asked if I could bowl a slower ball. Back then, I used to bowl fast. That day, I tried to bowl a slower ball."

"From then on, I saw the ball was turning well. I probably got him (Bijoy) out... I can't quite remember. Many have gotten out. Since then, the cutter has been my go-to delivery."

Mustafizur expressed that playing for Chennai was like a dream come true. He has been playing in the IPL since 2016, but this was his first season wearing the yellow jersey. "The night I received the call, I couldn't sleep," he said.

He enjoys a friendly atmosphere with everyone in the team. Despite being far from home or among other international players, he doesn't feel out of place. Dhoni, who often helps him with strategic placements on the field, has been a significant figure.

"Everyone here is friendly. I felt comfortable from day one, and there was no unease. Mahi Bhai showed some field setups, Bravo taught me how to bowl in the death overs... these inputs are invaluable."

Mustafizur doesn't interact much with Dhoni off the field. However, whenever they are on the field, Dhoni takes the time to explain everything clearly: "Most of our conversations are about bowling. I don't talk much beyond that. When we are on the field, Dhoni comes up to me and explains things—this is good to do, this will work better."

Mustafizur is always thinking about how to improve. While he doesn't want to overthink his progress, he reiterated in the video that he is always looking to enhance his performance.