Former India batter Mohammed Kaif has lauded Sameer Rizvi’s rise in IPL 2026, calling it a strong reflection of the depth and quality of India’s domestic cricket system. Kaif credited Rizvi’s breakthrough to the tough grind of domestic cricket, which provides consistent exposure, and helps the players to build the confidence needed to perform on big platforms.
Rizvi delivered again for Delhi Capitals, scoring a brilliant 90 off 51 balls to secure a six-wicket win over the Mumbai Indians. Coming in as an Impact Substitute, the young batter turned the game in DC’s favour after they were in trouble while chasing 163 runs.
“Sameer Rizvi’s IPL success – 58, 70 and now 90 against MI – is a salute to India’s domestic cricket. Rizvi and his UP teammate Prashant Veer were constantly on the road playing Mushtaq Ali T20 and U23 games. One day in Kolkata, the next day in Mumbai and again back to Kolkata. More domestic cricket translates into confidence and runs at the top level. Hard work always pays, and Rizvi is a perfect example of that,” Kaif wrote on X.
Sameer Rizvi’s IPL success – 58, 70 and now 90 against MI – is a salute to India’s domestic cricket. Rizvi, and his UP teammate Prashant Veer, were constantly on the road playing Mushtaq Ali T20 and u23 games. One day in Kolkata, the next day in Mumbai and again back to Kolkata.…
— Mohammad Kaif (@MohammadKaif) April 4, 2026
This season, Rizvi has shown considerable growth in his game. After an eye-catching 70 in Lucknow, he followed up with another match-defining knock, demonstrating composure in difficult batting conditions, where the pitch was challenging for batters.
His confidence stems from a solid foundation in domestic cricket. Representing Uttar Pradesh in the 2025-26 Vijay Hazare Trophy, Rizvi scored 238 runs at an impressive average of 59.50, playing a vital role in their run to the quarter-finals. His key performances included an explosive 80 off 45 balls against Jammu & Kashmir and an unbeaten 88 in the knockout stage, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure.
Interestingly, at the start of the season, Rizvi wasn’t a guaranteed starter in a Delhi Capitals squad stacked with talented Indian batters Abishek Porel, Ashutosh Sharma, and Karun Nair. However, his back-to-back impactful performances have solidified his place in the team.
