After collecting eight wickets in the Irani Cup match that ended on Sunday, October 4, 2026, in Srinagar, Mukesh Kumar has solidified his position as one of the top contenders for India’s red-ball selection for the two-Test series against New Zealand. In the same match, Akash Deep claimed six wickets, as the rest of India defeated Jammu & Kashmir by 167 runs. Prior to the anticipated meeting of the selection committee next week, the two Bengal pacers’ combined total of 14 wickets has bolstered their respective cases.
Mukesh Kumar has placed himself firmly among the leading candidates for India’s red-ball squad
As early as September 30, 2026, Akash Deep’s name has surfaced as a potential member of India’s Test team headed for New Zealand. His cause has now been reinforced by his recent Irani Cup achievements, and Mukesh Kumar has now entered the discussion.
In addition to the two Bengal pacers, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Gurnoor Brar are also being considered as part of India’s anticipated 16–17-man squad for the two-Test series. The World Test Championship cycle will continue with the two Test matches against New Zealand.
As reported on October 1, Prasidh Krishna suffered a hamstring injury on September 30, 2026, during the second ODI against the West Indies in Guwahati. His final clearance from the Center of Excellence is still pending, and his availability for the New Zealand tour has not been assured. Because the selectors could have to prepare for a pace group without Prasidh, this uncertainty gives the Irani Cup performances of Mukesh Kumar and Akash Deep more practical significance.
Since making his debut for India in July 2023, 32-year-old Mukesh Kumar has played in three Test matches, six One-Day Internationals, and seventeen Twenty20 Internationals. At a time when India is preparing their speed resources for a challenging overseas assignment, his eight-wicket return in Srinagar represents his most notable red-ball performance in domestic cricket in recent memory. The New Zealand tour consists of two Tests, five Twenty20 Internationals, and five One-Day Internationals from October 22 to December 1, 2026.
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The Irani Cup match ended on October 4, 2026, marking the conclusion of Ajit Agarkar’s tenure as head selector. Pragyan Ojha is currently serving as the temporary chief selector for the four-person selection committee. Before the squad is chosen, head coach Gautam Gambhir is anticipated to provide his opinions to the panel.
To choose squads for the entire New Zealand tour, the selectors are scheduled to meet next week. Prior to the first Twenty20 International against the West Indies on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, the Indian T20I team convened in Lucknow on Monday, October 5, 2026. After the start of the white-ball series against the West Indies, the red-ball squad will probably be announced.
