Afghanistan's teenage spin sensation AM Ghazanfar is hopeful about being retained by Mumbai Indians ahead of the December mini-auction for IPL 2026. The 19-year-old from Paktia was purchased by MI for INR 4.8 crore at the IPL 2025 mega-auction after a fierce bidding battle with Kolkata Knight Riders and Royal Challengers Bengaluru. However, a lower back fracture ruled him out of the entire IPL 2025 season before it began. Despite the setback, MI captain Hardik Pandya and teammate Tilak Varma remained in contact, offering motivation during his recovery. Ghazanfar, who represented KKR in IPL 2024, has since featured for Afghanistan across all three formats. The retention deadline is November 15, and the young spinner is eager to reunite with Pandya and the Mumbai franchise for the upcoming season.
Recovery, Retention Hopes, and Support from Mumbai Indians
Ghazanfar suffered a fracture in his lower back just before IPL 2025, forcing him out of the tournament. Despite the injury, Hardik Pandya stayed in regular contact and provided encouragement throughout his recovery period. The youngster also had extended conversations about cricket with MI batter Tilak Varma. Now fully recovered, Ghazanfar expressed his desire to play under Pandya's captaincy again this season. He acknowledged that playing seven to eight consecutive tournaments took a toll on his body, making it unprepared for Test cricket's demands. The spinner admitted he has become wiser from the experience and is now ready for the challenges ahead in franchise and international cricket.
Source: Link