Mukesh Kumar's six-wicket haul in Irani Cup raises New Zealand selection question
Mukesh Kumar's 6 for 33 in the Irani Cup has put his name back in selection discussions for India's tour of New Zealand.
Mukesh Kumar took 6 for 33 as Rest of India bowled Jammu and Kashmir out for 111 to win the Irani Cup by 167 runs in Srinagar on Sunday. Akash Deep supported with 3 for 25 as the pair shared nine wickets between them.
Mukesh asked stand-in captain Sarfaraz Khan for the ball in the second innings after conceding 12 runs in his first three overs. He removed Shubham Pundir and Paras Dogra in successive deliveries before finishing with six wickets. The performance came on a pitch with grass and seam movement similar to conditions expected in New Zealand.
Mukesh has played three Tests for India with seven wickets at 25.57. Six of those wickets came away from home. Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Akash Deep and Gurnoor Brar are the names currently under consideration for the New Zealand tour starting November 19.
CricHubb Take
Mukesh's case rests on away conditions and proven ability to pitch the ball up and let it move, exactly the method required in Wellington and Christchurch, yet the volume of cricket India plays means selectors may keep him as injury cover rather than a frontline pick.