Sourav Ganguly Backs Mukesh Kumar After Test Snub: “He’s a Bowler for All Formats”
Former India captain Sourav Ganguly has come out in support of Mukesh Kumar after the pacer was left out of India’s Test squad for the recently concluded five-match series against England. Despite consistent domestic performances and a strong showing for India A, the 31-year-old was overlooked—even as a backup option.
Mukesh had taken three wickets in his lone unofficial Test against the England Lions at Canterbury, yet didn’t find a place in the squad. Just two days before the first Test, he posted a cryptic Instagram story that read: “Karma bides its time. You will always have to watch out. Karma is unforgiving and always gets payback.” The message fueled speculation that he was disappointed over his exclusion.
Ganguly, speaking to India Today, called the Bengal pacer “an excellent bowler” and stressed that he deserves more chances.
“Mukesh should definitely play. In these conditions, he’s an excellent fast bowler. He consistently takes wickets in domestic cricket and deserves a chance,” Ganguly said.
“His time will come,” says Ganguly
Ganguly also expressed hope that Mukesh could feature in India’s white-ball squads soon, including the upcoming Asia Cup to be held in the UAE from September 9 to 28.
“Since there’s no Test cricket at the moment, let’s see if he gets picked for the T20s or the Asia Cup. He’s a bowler who can perform across all formats. His time will come—he just needs to be patient.”
A well-rounded performer
Mukesh made his first-class debut in 2015 and rose to prominence during the 2019–20 Ranji Trophy season, where he claimed a six-wicket haul in the semifinal. His performances earned him a ₹5.5 crore IPL contract with Delhi Capitals in the 2025 auction. As of now, he has played 32 IPL matches, taking 36 wickets, albeit at a slightly expensive economy of 10.39.
Internationally, he had a rare distinction—between July and August 2023, Mukesh made his debut in all three formats during the West Indies tour. He has since picked up 7 wickets in 3 Tests, 5 wickets in 6 ODIs, and 20 wickets from 17 T20Is.
However, he last featured for India over a year ago during the 2024 tour of Zimbabwe. While his numbers remain promising, selection has eluded him in recent months—something that Ganguly believes will change soon.
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