“Ganguly Surprised by Mukesh Kumar’s Omission: ‘He Belongs in Every Format'”

“Mukesh Kumar Deserves a Longer Run”: Ganguly Calls for More Backing After Test Omission.

Former India captain Sourav Ganguly has voiced strong support for pacer Mukesh Kumar, calling him a rare talent suited to all formats, after the Bengal quick was left out of India’s squad for the Test series against England.

Despite a steady rise through the domestic ranks and a three-wicket haul in his only unofficial Test against the England Lions, Mukesh didn’t make the cut—even as a reserve. The 31-year-old’s cryptic Instagram story before the series, reading “Karma bides its time… Karma is unforgiving and always gets payback,” hinted at frustration over his omission.

Speaking to India Today, Ganguly made his stance clear:

“Mukesh should definitely play. He’s an excellent fast bowler in these conditions. He keeps taking wickets in domestic cricket and deserves more chances.”

Ganguly: Asia Cup could be his chance
Ganguly also expressed hope that Mukesh could return to the national setup soon, especially with the Asia Cup scheduled in the UAE from September 9. “There’s no Test cricket for a while, so let’s see if he gets picked for the Asia Cup or the T20s. He’s capable of doing well in all formats. His time will come—he just needs to stay patient.”

A quick rise, an uncertain future
Mukesh Kumar made his first-class debut in 2015 and shot to prominence during the 2019–20 Ranji Trophy season, with a standout six-wicket haul in the semifinal. In 2025, he was picked by Delhi Capitals for ₹5.5 crore in the IPL. He’s since played 32 matches, picking 36 wickets, though his economy of 10.39 has raised questions in the T20 format.

In a rare burst between July and August 2023, Mukesh debuted for India in Tests, ODIs, and T20Is during the West Indies tour. He has picked up:

• 7 wickets in 3 Tests
• 5 wickets in 6 ODIs
• 20 wickets in 17 T20Is

However, he hasn’t featured for India since July 2024, during the tour of Zimbabwe. With Ganguly’s public endorsement and a solid all-format track record, Mukesh Kumar might soon get the call he’s waiting for. For now, as Ganguly advises, patience may be his biggest weapon.