Kushagra’s India call-up lifts Jharkhand Ranji squad, says coach
Jharkhand coach Ratan Kumar said Kumar Kushagra’s India selection has boosted the morale of the state’s young Ranji squad ahead of their match against Maharashtra.
Jharkhand coach Ratan Kumar said Kumar Kushagra’s maiden India call-up for the last two ODIs against New Zealand has given the state’s young Ranji squad another reason to believe. Kushagra was added to the squad on Friday as backup wicketkeeper-batter. Ratan said the news reached the team in Pune ahead of their second-round match against Maharashtra and lifted morale at dinner.
The 24-year-old squad average has now seen one of its own reach the national side. Ratan said the achievement sends a message that players from Jharkhand can make it to the highest level. Jharkhand began their Ranji campaign with three points after securing a first-innings lead against Kerala.
Kushagra will be Ishan Kishan’s backup for the ODIs on 13 and 15 November. Jharkhand face Maharashtra at the MCA Stadium in Pune from Sunday.
CricHubb Take
Kushagra’s call-up at 24 shows that consistent domestic performances can still force a late entry into the national setup even when established names are available.