Mukesh Kumar has scripted a unique record, becoming only the second Indian to make a debut in all three formats of the game on a single tour. The 29-year-old is currently part of the Indian T20I squad. led by Hardik Pandya, which is playing in a five-game series against West Indies.
Mukesh made his T20I debut against the West Indies in the first T20I, which India lost by four runs at Brian Lara Stadium in Trinidad. He bowled three overs and conceded just 24 runs but did not claim any wickets.
The Bengal pacer made his international debut through the Port of Spain Test, where he took two wickets at an economy rate of 2.30. In between, he made his ODI debut as well, picking 1/22 in Bridgetown. He featured in all three ODIs of the series and took four wickets in 15 overs at an average of 17.25.
The pacer is expected play the second T20I of the ongoing series, which is set to be played at the Providence Stadium on August 6, Sunday. Moreover, he has also been picked in the India squad for the three-match T20I series against Ireland later in August.
Mukesh Kumar emulates T Natarajan’s record
Making his debut in all formats during a single tour, Mukesh matched T Natarajan’s record. Natarajan was the first Indian cricketer to accomplish the feat, during India’s 2020-21 tour of Australia. The left-arm pacer from Tamil Nadu made his ODI and T20I debuts first before receiving an opportunity to play in the final Test of the series.
The 32-year-old played a significant role in India’s historic Test victory in Brisbane, taking three wickets in the match to help his team win the historic series 2-1. However, he struggled to develop as an international player despite having a fantastic debut performance owing to numerous setbacks. Natarajan has only represented India in one Test, two ODIs, and four T20Is.