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3 reasons why Mukesh Kumar is likely to make his Test debut for India against West Indies
Bengal pacer Mukesh Kumar has finally received his maiden India call for the upcoming tour to West Indies. The 29-year-old has been included in India’s Test and ODI squads against the Caribbean team starting next month. His numbers in domestic cricket have helped him to get the recognition he deserves.
Although Mukesh has been a part of India’s white-ball squad before, he has been at his best in the longest format in domestic cricket. He has the ability to swing the ball both ways which makes him quite a prospect to have on the team. He was also part of the Indian squad for the World Test Championship final as a reserve player. Looking at all the aspects,
Here are the top three reasons why Mukesh should make his Test debut for India against West Indies.
Domestic cricket performances
Mukesh has been one of the best bowlers in domestic cricket over the past few years. His record with the red ball speaks about his unreal consistency. The fast bowler has scalped 149 wickets at an average of just 21.55. He has already taken his game to the next level with his incredible performances in India A. With this, he already proved his ability to step up to a new challenge.
Experience with the red ball
Mukesh Kumar has a lot of experience in domestic cricket under his belt with the red ball. He already has great control over his line and length and can be the ideal bowler to make a mark in the absence of spearhead pacers like Mohammed Shami and Umesh Yadav. Also, he has been a part of the Indian squad as a reserve player for the WTC final, through which he also may have got more experience.
Need for transitions
The Indian team probably lacks a fast bowler who has the ability to swing the ball both ways. This can be also one of the reasons for India’s loss in the WTC final. Now, it can an ideal spot for him to make his impact and cement his place in the Indian Test squad. At the same time, India also needs to start looking for players who could sustain their place in the future with players like Umesh and Shami already in their thirties. This could be probably the best chance for Mukesh to make his impact for India.