Unlike the typical Afghan cricket success stories born out of hardship, Mujeeb Ur Rahman’s journey is quite different. Growing up in a mansion in Khost, he developed a passion for cricket after watching the 2012 World T20. With access to private practice facilities, Mujeeb honed his craft, experimenting with spin using a tennis ball and drawing inspiration from Ajantha Mendis via YouTube. Training at his cousin Noor Ali Zadran’s cricket academy helped sharpen his skills.

By 16, Mujeeb had already broken into Afghanistan’s national team, quickly establishing himself as Rashid Khan’s apprentice and delivering some stunning performances. Early in his career, he was instrumental in Afghanistan’s 3-1 series win over Bangladesh, famously taking 7/19 defending a low total of 133 and finishing the series with a record 17 wickets.

His rise continued with a remarkable Asia Cup showing where he took 20 wickets in five games, including crucial spells in the semi-final and final. Highlights also include a destructive ODI series against Ireland in 2017 and a vital 4-wicket haul knocking hosts New Zealand out of the U-19 World Cup quarter-finals. With Afghanistan gaining Test status, Mujeeb made history as the first player born in the 21st century to play Test cricket during Afghanistan’s inaugural Test match against India in 2018—an appearance that doubled as his first-class debut.

Despite being only 17 when he secured a four-crore INR IPL deal—making him one of Afghanistan’s earliest IPL players—Mujeeb showed no signs of nerves. Playing for Kings XI Punjab in 2018, he earned a spot in the playing eleven over many international stars and impressed with his ability to bowl in high-pressure situations, including death overs and powerplays, baffling top batsmen like Virat Kohli.

Beyond international cricket, Mujeeb has become a sought-after player in global T20 leagues, representing franchises across the IPL, PSL, BPL, BBL, CPL, LPL, and The Hundred.

Like his inspiration Ajantha Mendis, Mujeeb is a ‘mystery’ spinner. His greatest strengths lie in relentless accuracy and a well-disguised carrom ball. While mysteries can be solved, Mujeeb’s craft and impact are set to endure for a long time.