During a nets session at Chennai’s AM Jain College, Mukesh Kumar ran in hard and beat Saurabh Kumar Singh’s defence. Curious, he asked whether the ball had seamed in or held its line and walked back satisfied that it had moved exactly as intended.
A couple of days later, he produced the same movement in a match — this time against Mumbai in the Buchi Babu Trophy at the IITM Chemplast Ground. He picked up two wickets, including a memorable dismissal when a nip-backer shattered Pragnesh Kanpillewar’s off stump as he shouldered his arms.
That wicket was more than just a breakthrough — it showed that Mukesh’s rhythm was coming together. For him, every delivery counts: as preparation for the Duleep Trophy and as a step towards an India comeback. He last played a Test in February 2024 against England.
“This is my first match of the season,” Mukesh tells Sportstar. “I didn’t practice much coming into it. I spoke to the trainers, and they advised me to bowl more and provided me with a plan. That’s why I wanted to play here. The first game of any season is challenging, especially in these conditions.”
Mukesh has been named in the East Zone squad for the Duleep Trophy, which starts on August 28 in Bengaluru. The Buchi Babu Tournament offered him the perfect stage to get back into the groove. “It’s raining in Kolkata, and even in Bengaluru, there’s a bit of rain. So, I asked my coach and came here to prepare. This is a very good tournament. I played here seven or eight years ago, and before the season it’s a great way to prepare — to learn how to bowl on these wickets,” he says.
For Mukesh, the Duleep Trophy is a crucial chance to stake his claim for an India recall. “My goal is always to give 100 per cent wherever I play. I hope to finish as the highest wicket-taker,” he adds. Even if it doesn’t directly lead to a comeback, he knows it will sharpen him for the domestic season ahead.
Discipline and patience have been central to his journey. Following the NCA’s training program, he keeps himself match-ready. “The NCA keeps following up, and as a backup option, I just need to wait for my chance. I always prepare like I’m going to play. Even if I get just one or two games, I play wholeheartedly.”
Mukesh made his international debut across formats in 2023. Since then, he has played three Tests, six ODIs, and 17 T20Is, claiming seven, five, and 20 wickets respectively. Despite being part of the BCCI’s central contract, he is still waiting for consistent opportunities.
“The current group of bowlers is performing well. When I get my chance, I’ll also have to perform. I’m preparing accordingly — bowling in match situations, focusing on sessions. Whenever the opportunity comes, I’ll grab it,” he says.
In June, he toured with India A for two Tests against England Lions, picking three wickets in the only innings he bowled. Although not in the main squad, he was on standby for the five-match series against England. “I was told to be ready if someone got injured. Unfortunately, it didn’t happen.”
For Bengal head coach Laxmi Ratan Shukla, Mukesh’s absence from the team is disappointing. “Despite performing, he’s been dropped for no reason. He played well in all formats, including the Indian Premier League (IPL). It’s unfortunate. Poor selection.”
However, Mukesh has kept his hopes alive. “You just need to work hard; the rest is in God’s hands.”
Coming from a humble background in Gopalganj, Bihar, staying grounded is as important for Mukesh as staying sharp. “My friends and family always remind me not to let the limelight get to me. Don’t chase name and fame — chase cricket, because that’s what gives you everything. Whatever I am today is because of cricket. My priority will always be cricket.”
Having already achieved the dream of playing at Eden Gardens, his next ambition is even bigger. “I want to make a comeback in the Indian team and keep playing there. I also want to bowl at Lord’s — that’s the mecca of cricket. I have bowled at The Oval, but Lord’s is a different feeling. I haven’t been there yet, but hopefully one day I will.”
Published on Aug 24, 2025
