India vs Australia 3rd T20I: Mukesh Kumar Takes Wedding Break; Deepak Chahar Joins Indian Squad

Indian fast bowler Mukesh Kumar has made a request to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), seeking permission to step away from the national squad ahead of the third T20I against Australia in Guwahati. The reason behind this request? Mukesh is about to embark on a significant personal journey - his wedding.

The cricketer, who has been a valuable asset to the team, is eager to participate in and relish the joyous celebrations surrounding his marriage. Recognizing the importance of this special occasion in Mukesh's life, the BCCI has granted him the leave necessary to partake in his wedding festivities.

However, despite his brief absence, Mukesh remains committed to his team and the series. He is slated to rejoin the squad in preparation for the fourth T20I, set to take place in Raipur. His dedication to both personal and professional responsibilities is evident in his decision to balance the significant milestone of his marriage with his duties as an integral part of the Indian cricket squad.

In light of Mukesh Kumar's temporary departure, the BCCI has swiftly taken measures to ensure the team remains equipped and formidable. To bolster the squad for the remainder of the series against Australia, the BCCI has included pacer Deepak Chahar.

Chahar's addition to the squad signifies the BCCI's proactive approach to maintain the team's strength and competitiveness throughout the series. His expertise and skill in the realm of fast bowling are expected to contribute significantly to India's strategies and performances on the field.

Who is Mukesh Kumar?

Hailing from Bengal, Mukesh Kumar has been a part of India's cricket squads. His first-class debut in 2015 marked the beginning of a successful career, boasting 149 wickets in the red-ball format with an impressive average of 21.55. Notably, he has claimed six five-wicket hauls and made a remarkable impact from the start, dismissing cricket stalwarts like Virender Sehwag on his debut and securing a significant four-wicket haul.

Mukesh Kumar soared to prominence during the 2019/20 Ranji Trophy season, showcasing his prowess with 32 wickets in 10 matches. Among his standout performances was a pivotal six-wicket haul during the semi-final clash against Karnataka, a contribution that propelled Bengal into the final.

His prowess continued to shine on the field, dismissing key Indian players including KL Rahul, Manish Pandey, and Devdutt Padikkal, accumulating eight crucial wickets in a match. This stellar performance earned him a call-up to the India A team for the unofficial Tests against New Zealand A, where he emerged as the joint-highest wicket-taker, securing nine scalps, including a pivotal five-wicket haul in the first unofficial Test.

Further solidifying his credentials, Mukesh Kumar impressed with a remarkable six-wicket haul for India A against Bangladesh in Sylhet in December of the same year. His exceptional talent didn't go unnoticed as the IPL 2023 auctions saw him secure a lucrative deal worth INR 5.5 crore, with Delhi Capitals acquiring his services.