‘I do try and help…’- Mukesh Kumar inspires youngsters in hometown Bihar through mentorship

The Indian Cricket Team recently finished their Test series against South Africa. The visitors didn't prevail against the hosts in the 1st Test at the Centurion. However, with a great comeback, they had the upper hand against South Africa in Cape Town during the 2nd Test, which Rohit Sharma’s side won by 7 wickets. India is currently 2nd on the WTC table but will now be seen in action against Afghanistan in a 3-match T20I series, starting on January 11, 2024, at the Punjab Cricket Association Stadium. 

3 things you need to know 

• India beat South Africa in the 2nd Test by 7 wickets 
• India vs South Africa series ended in a tie, 1-1
• India vs Afghanistan 1st T20I will be played on January 11, 2024

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Mukesh Kumar on mentoring children in his Bihar hometown

Pacer Mukesh Kumar of Team India has stated that he is dedicated to mentoring and helping upcoming cricket players in his birthplace in the Gopalganj area of Bihar. Mukesh has gone above and beyond in his endeavors to develop potential by giving some of these young cricket players bowling spikes.

Despite not taking many wickets in the just-finished South Africa trip, Mukesh was praised for his poise and fortitude under duress. He was a member of the Indian side in all formats.

Mukesh is a celebrity in the district and the first cricketer from Gopalganj to be selected for the national team. The 30-year-old bowler is still excited about seeing the next generation of cricketers flourish, which is a testament to his commitment to developing talent at the local level. According to the PTI, Mukesh Kumar said:

"Yes, when I go back to Gopalganj youngsters come and speak to me and ask me about their game and seek guidance. I do try and help them as much as I can. I have gifted a few bowling spikes to them,"

When Mukesh Kumar looked back on his difficult route to the peak of his profession, he revealed that part of it involved spending a lot of time living in the dormitories at Eden Gardens. Notwithstanding the difficulties, Mukesh sees this experience as a worthwhile learning opportunity that has advanced his development as a cricket player. He added:

“Patience and process were two aspects that I always concentrated upon. Also all tips given by my coaches from formative years have come in handy,”

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How has Mukesh Kumar performed for India so far?

The Indian medium bowler, who made his debut for his national team in July 2023, has quickly established himself in the cricket scene, appearing in two Test matches, six One-Day Internationals, and eleven Twenty-20 international matches. In response to a query concerning the move from local cricket to international cricket, the Bengal pacer said that being adaptable is a key component in making this transition. He added:

"When you play for the country, you need to adapt and adjust to various formats. If you are playing white ball and need to play Test matches after that, then you also simultaneously need to practice with red ball,"

Mukesh Kumar has taken six wickets in Test matches, five in ODIs, and ten in T20Is, showcasing his abilities on a grand scale. These early outings highlight his bright beginning in international cricket and demonstrate his capacity to have a significant influence in a variety of game types.