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Mukesh Kumar was the star performer with the ball for the Rest of India on Day 3 of the Irani Cup at Ekana Cricket Stadium, leading his team to a remarkable victory against Mumbai. The talented pacer claimed a stunning five-wicket haul, dismissing key Mumbai batsmen, including the likes of Prithvi Shaw and Hardik Tamore, as he wrapped up the innings with an impressive display of fast bowling.
Mukesh Kumar’s outstanding performance culminated in the 141st over of Mumbai’s innings when he dismissed M Juned Khan, who failed to defend a well-placed length delivery that uprooted his off-stump. Juned walked back for a duck, leaving the Mumbai side bundled out for a total that reflected the relentless pressure exerted by the Rest of India’s bowlers.
In addition to Juned, Mukesh accounted for the wickets of Prithvi Shaw, Ayush Mhatre, Hardik Tamore, and Shams Mulani, showcasing his ability to take crucial wickets in key moments of the game. His five-wicket haul not only highlighted his skill but also marked an impressive return to form after his successful campaign in the 2024 Duleep Trophy, where he bagged 15 wickets, including two five-wicket hauls.
At 30 years old, Mukesh Kumar’s career has shown promise, yet he was notably absent from the Indian squad for the recent Tests against Bangladesh. With three Test matches to his name, he has collected seven wickets, proving his potential in the longer format of the game. His last international appearance was in the T20I series against Zimbabwe in July, where he excelled, picking up eight wickets across three matches, including a standout performance of 4/22.
Despite his growing reputation in international cricket, Mukesh found himself sidelined during the T20I series in Sri Lanka, raising questions about his selection. However, his impressive statistics—20 wickets in 17 T20Is and five scalps in six ODIs—demonstrate his capability as a valuable asset to the Indian bowling lineup.
As the Irani Cup progresses, Mukesh Kumar’s stellar performance serves as a reminder of his talent and determination, keeping the door open for future opportunities in the national team. His ability to deliver in crucial moments is likely to put him back on the selectors’ radar as India prepares for upcoming challenges on the international stage.
