The highly anticipated five-match Test series between India and England (IND vs ENG) is set to begin on June 20th in Leeds. A surprising change within the Indian team has, however, garnered significant attention.
Sports Desk: Indian fast bowler Mukesh Kumar is currently in the headlines due to an Instagram story. After being excluded from the squad for the England tour, he posted a cryptic story using the word 'Karma,' which cricket fans and experts interpret as a direct jibe at coach Gautam Gambhir and young bowler Harshit Rana.
Harshit Rana's sudden inclusion in Team India's Test squad and the omission of Mukesh Kumar have raised questions about the selection process, sparking debates about player morale and transparency in selection.
What is the whole story?
The first match of the five-Test series between India and England is scheduled for June 20th at Headingley in Leeds. Harshit Rana was added to the Indian Test team at the last minute for this highly anticipated series, while experienced bowler Mukesh Kumar was dropped. Mukesh Kumar had previously delivered a stellar performance in the unofficial Test between India A and England Lions in Canterbury, claiming three wickets.
However, he was subsequently dropped from the next match and did not play in either the Northampton or practice matches. Furthermore, he didn't secure a place in the main Test team against England.
'Karma' Post Sparks Debate
Hours after being dropped from the team, Mukesh Kumar posted a story on his Instagram featuring just one word: Karma. This post immediately ignited social media. Cricket fans viewed it as a clear expression of Mukesh's displeasure and sarcasm. Given Gautam Gambhir's perceived role in including Harshit Rana, especially considering their close association during the IPL, the post is seen as a pointed remark directed at both Gambhir and Rana.
Questions Surround Harshit Rana's Inclusion
23-year-old Harshit Rana debuted in November 2024 during the Perth Test on the Australia tour, taking 4 wickets and contributing to India's significant victory. However, his performance since has been underwhelming. He took only one wicket in the sole unofficial Test against England Lions, although he impressed with two sixes in his batting innings.
Despite this average performance, his sudden inclusion in Team India surprised many veterans and fans, reigniting the debate between experience and young talent in selection.
Are Gambhir's Intentions Questionable?
Gautam Gambhir was recently appointed head coach of the Indian cricket team, replacing Rahul Dravid. His crucial role in leading the Kolkata Knight Riders to victory in IPL 2024, a team which included Harshit Rana, has led to accusations of bias in the selection process.
The BCCI has yet to issue an official statement on this matter. However, according to internal sources, the selection was entirely based on the recommendations of the team management and coaching staff. Mukesh Kumar has played for India on limited occasions over the past two years, but he has consistently proven himself through hard work. Whether it was the West Indies tour or domestic series, he has consistently bowled with discipline.
