Born in Bihar, Made in Bengal: Mukesh Kumar and Akash Deep Power Irani Cup Triumph

Mukesh Kumar and Akash Deep once again showed why they remain among India’s notable domestic pace options after playing a key role in Rest of India’s Irani Cup triumph.

The two seamers ran through Ranji Trophy champions Jammu and Kashmir in the final, producing an impressive bowling display and putting themselves firmly in contention for an India recall ahead of the upcoming Test series against New Zealand.

Although both pacers were born in Bihar, their careers have been shaped significantly by Bengal cricket. Their partnership has also developed over several years. The duo first bowled together in a senior domestic match on Christmas Day in 2019, when they combined to take five wickets against Andhra.

The pair share a strong understanding on the field and an easy friendship off it. Asked when they first met, both struggled to remember the exact occasion, prompting Mukesh to jokingly say that whenever they met, they simply hugged each other.

Their chemistry has translated effectively into their bowling. With seam movement, pace and experience, Mukesh and Akash Deep have become a familiar combination in domestic cricket.

Their performance in the Irani Cup final against Jammu and Kashmir further strengthened their credentials. With India preparing for the Tests against New Zealand, the display gives the selectors another reason to consider the Bengal duo for the national setup.