The Indian cricket fraternity is buzzing with discussions and debates after a cryptic social media post by fast bowler Mukesh Kumar. The bowler's recent Instagram story, shared just days before the first Test against England, has ignited a wave of speculation and support from fans. The post read: "Karma bides its time. You will always have to watch out. Karma is unforgiving and always gets payback.”
The timing of Kumar's post, following the announcement of the Test squad and, particularly, the inclusion of Harshit Rana as an additional member, has led many to believe that it reflects his disappointment at being overlooked. Fans have rallied behind Kumar, questioning the selection process and expressing their frustration over what they perceive as a lack of recognition for consistent performers in domestic cricket.
Mukesh Kumar, a right-arm fast bowler, has been a consistent performer in domestic cricket, representing Bengal in the Ranji Trophy and other tournaments. He made his first-class debut in 2015 and has steadily risen through the ranks. Kumar's breakthrough came in the 2021-22 season when he picked up 20 wickets in nine innings, helping Bengal reach the semifinal. He has also represented India in all three formats of the game, making his Test debut against West Indies in 2023.
Adding fuel to the fire, fans and experts have questioned the inclusion of Harshit Rana, citing his limited red-ball experience compared to Kumar's proven stamina and control. Rana, also a part of the India A squad, played in the same match as Kumar against England Lions but returned figures of 1/99, while Kumar took 3/92.
The debate has brought to the forefront the challenges faced by domestic cricketers who grind it out in the Ranji Trophy, often without the promise of consistent opportunities at the international level. Fans have voiced their concerns about whether domestic performances are truly valued when it comes to team selection.
One X user commented, "You can really feel Mukesh Kumar's frustration. He's toiled hard, picked up around 44 wickets in his last 11 domestic games. Meanwhile, someone like Harshit Rana, with barely 13 domestic matches under his belt, gets retained in the squad. It makes you wonder what's the point of grinding in domestic cricket if selections don't reflect it?"
Kumar's journey to professional cricket is a story of determination and hard work. He moved from Bihar to Kolkata to pursue better cricketing opportunities and eventually made his way into the Bengal state team. He was also picked up by Delhi Capitals in the IPL auction.
While the BCCI has not officially commented on the reasons for Kumar's omission, the fans' reaction highlights the strong connection they feel with players who have come through the domestic system. Whether Kumar's cryptic post will lead to any changes in the selection process remains to be seen, but it has certainly sparked a conversation about the importance of recognizing and rewarding consistent performances in domestic cricket.
