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[Watch] Mukesh Kumar Lights Up Irani Cup 2024 By Cleaning Up Mulani With An Absolute Peach

Mukesh Kumar Impresses BCCI with Standout Performance [Source: BCCI/X.com]Mukesh Kumar Impresses BCCI with Standout Performance [Source: BCCI/X.com]

The Irani Cup 2024 has been an exciting contest so far, with the Ranji Trophy champions, Mumbai, facing the Rest of India at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow. Leading the Rest of India side, Ruturaj Gaikwad won the toss and opted to field first, a decision that immediately paid off as the Rest of India bowlers wreaked havoc early in the match.

Mumbai’s innings started off to a disastrous start, with the team struggling at 37/3 within the first 12 overs. Mukesh Kumar, who led the charge with the new ball, delivered a devastating opening spell that left Mumbai reeling. On Day 1, he struck early, removing key players like Prithvi Shaw for just 4 runs, followed by wicketkeeper-batter Hardik Tamore for a duck. 

Mukesh Kumar's performance at the Ekana Cricket Stadium was outstanding. After a great run in the Duleep Trophy, where he took the most wickets, he carried that form into the Irani Cup. Using the new ball, he swung it in both directions, making it really hard for the Mumbai batters to handle.

Mukesh's delivery to dismiss Prithvi Shaw was one of the best moments of the day, and his steady pace kept the other team in trouble. On Day 2, Mukesh struck again in the 81st over, taking his fourth wicket by knocking over Shams Mulani with a perfectly placed ball that swung back and hit the stumps directly. Mulani departed after scoring 5 runs off 14 balls.

Mukesh Kumar Knocking On India's Doors

Mukesh Kumar's impressive performance in the Irani Cup has brought him closer to a spot in the Indian team. With Mohammed Shami's availability uncertain due to a knee injury, Mukesh is now emerging as a strong contender for India's upcoming series against New Zealand and Australia.

Shami’s injury, which could keep him out for six to eight weeks, opens the door for Mukesh to step in. His steady form in domestic cricket, including the Duleep Trophy, along with his impressive showing in the Irani Cup, makes a solid case for him to be part of India's pace attack.