India have a tough decision to make ahead of the IND vs ENG 4th Test, starting on February 23 in Ranchi. With Jasprit Bumrah set to miss the fourth Test as part of work load management, the hosts have to choose between two pacers – Mukesh Kumar and Akash Deep.
Mukesh Kumar, who was part of the Playing XI for the second Test in Visakhapatnam, had a forgettable outing. The 30-year-old registered figures of 0/44 in 7 overs in the first innings and 1/26 in 5 overs in the second.
The pacer was released from the squad before the third Test, allowing him to join Bengal for Ranji Trophy game against Bihar.
However, Mukesh displayed brilliant performance, registering his career best figures in an innings and match.
Meanwhile, Akash Deep recieved his maiden India call-up for the last three Test matches. The pacer had a brilliant outing for India ‘A’ in the unofficial multiple-day series against England Lions, where he took 13 wickets.
With Bumrah set to miss out, it would be interesting to see whether India will go with an uncapped pacer Akash Deep or an experienced Mukesh Kumar.
