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IND vs ENG, 4th Test: Mukesh Kumar or Akash Deep, Who is a Better Choice for the Ranchi Pitch?

image-lsxae9pvAkashdeep has been drafted into the Indian team ahead of the 4th Test Match (Source: x.com)

The penultimate Test between India and England in Ranchi holds immense significance as both teams seek to gain the upper hand in the closely contested five-match series. After a setback in the opening match, Team India, under the leadership of Rohit Sharma, has displayed exceptional resilience and skill to secure victories in the last two encounters. With the series now standing at 2-1 in India's favour, the hosts are poised to clinch the series with another triumph in Ranchi.

The upcoming match promises intense cricketing action as India aims to capitalize on the momentum gained and secure a decisive victory on their home turf. In the previous match, India introduced two debutants, Sarfaraz Khan and Dhruv Jurel, both of whom made a strong impression. Sarfaraz marked his elusive debut with two impressive fifties, showcasing his batting skills.

Meanwhile, Jurel delivered a decent performance with the bat and displayed commendable skills behind the stumps. In a bid to manage workload, reports suggest that Jasprit Bumrah will be rested for the upcoming Test. Akash Deep is anticipated to make his debut, with Mukesh Kumar also in contention after his noteworthy 10-wicket haul against Bihar in the Ranji Trophy. The team's strategic decisions aim to balance performance and player fitness in the ongoing series.

Mukesh or Akashdeep - The Decision-Making Dilemma for Ranchi

The pitch at JSCA Stadium in Ranchi has become a focal point of discussion ahead of the upcoming Test match. The absence of Jasprit Bumrah, and the possibility of early turn on the pitch, have added an element of intrigue to the playing conditions. In the absence of the fast-bowling spearhead, the focus shifts to the spinners, raising expectations for the surface to offer more assistance to spin bowling compared to the pitches in Hyderabad, Visakhapatnam, and Rajkot.

The selection conundrum facing India ahead of the Ranchi Test is multifaceted, with the nature of the pitch being a primary consideration. The absence of Jasprit Bumrah necessitates a careful choice for the second pace option alongside Mohammed Siraj. While spin is expected to play a significant role from the outset, the team is weighing the inclusion of Axar Patel, given his ability on turning tracks. Axar Patel's ability to contribute with the bat adds an extra dimension to his candidacy.

On the pace front, Mukesh Kumar, who faced challenges in the second Test, is under consideration. Despite his initial struggles, the team management might opt to provide him another opportunity, considering his recent impressive performance in the Ranji Trophy. The final decision hinges on a delicate balance between spin and pace, taking into account the specific demands of the Ranchi pitch and the desired composition of the playing XI.


Conclusion

In conclusion, the selection dilemma for India ahead of the Ranchi Test revolves around balancing pace and spin, given the nature of the pitch that is expected to assist spinners from the outset. With Jasprit Bumrah rested, choosing the second pace option becomes crucial. Mukesh Kumar, despite a challenging debut in the second Test, presents a compelling case for consideration. His recent outstanding performance in the Ranji Trophy, where he claimed a 10-wicket haul against Bihar, showcases his potential. The team management may prioritize giving him another opportunity to prove his mettle, trusting in his ability to contribute positively, especially in the spin-friendly conditions anticipated at JSCA Stadium in Ranchi.