Mukesh Kumar

Mukesh Kumar, a right-arm seamer hailing from Gopalganj in Bihar, had initially set his sights on joining the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and Bihar Police. However, after facing challenges in meeting the required fitness levels, he turned to cricket as a serious career option. Seeking better opportunities, Mukesh moved to Kolkata, where he trained under Birendra Singh at Bani Niketan Sports Club and impressed in division league cricket. In 2014, Mukesh caught a lucky break when he was shortlisted in the state trials organized under Sourav Ganguly's Vision 2020 program. Despite struggling with fitness, the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) supported him, and his performances at the club level earned him a place in Bengal's Ranji Trophy squad in 2015. However, injuries and lackluster performances limited his opportunities in the side. It was in the 2018-19 season that Mukesh established himself in the Bengal team, making a strong impression in the semi-finals with figures of 6-61 against Karnataka, which boasted a formidable batting lineup. His performance played a crucial role in Bengal's progress to the final. Mukesh continued to showcase his skills at the domestic level, leading to his selection in India's ODI squad for a series against South Africa in 2022. Although he didn't make his international debut at that time or during the subsequent series against Sri Lanka, Mukesh grabbed headlines in the 2022 IPL Auction. Against all expectations, he was bought by the Delhi Capitals for a remarkable INR 5.5 crore, making him one of the most expensive uncapped players that year. Known for his modesty and affinity for rural life, Mukesh Kumar has risen through the ranks as a capable fast bowler. His perseverance and consistent performances have earned him recognition, and he is poised to make a mark in domestic and potentially international cricket.