The Indian Test squad for the upcoming England series just witnessed a surprise substitution, with Avesh Khan replacing the injured Prasidh Krishna. Cricket fans, brace yourselves for another thrilling chapter in the story of Avesh Khan’s rise to prominence!
Prasidh, unfortunately, picked up a left quadriceps injury while playing for Karnataka in the Ranji Trophy. With recovery timelines estimated between four and six weeks, his dream of starting the prestigious England series is on hold. However, one player’s misfortune often becomes another’s opportunity, and this time, it’s Avesh who grabs the spotlight.
This isn’t Avesh Khan’s first dance with the national team. Remember his impressive performance in South Africa? He showcased his skills with a five-wicket haul in the four-day game against India A. After this, he was then called as a replacement for the injured Mohammed Shami vs Proteas. This wasn’t a one-off feat; Avesh Khan has consistently proven his mettle, boasting 154 first-class wickets at an astonishing average of 22.27.
Avesh Khan replaces Prasidh Krishna
While Prasidh’s absence is a blow, Avesh’s inclusion brings a different flavor to the pace attack. His swing bowling can wreak havoc on English batters, especially in helpful Indian conditions. Imagine the swing master Avesh teaming up with the fiery Jasprit Bumrah and the ever-reliable Mohammed Siraj – it’s a recipe for bowling dominance!
Previously added to the squad for the South Africa series, Avesh’s inclusion adds depth to the pace-bowling options alongside Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Mukesh Kumar, especially with Mohammed Shami still on the path to full fitness.
Prasidh Krishna, who recently made his Test debut during the South Africa tour after recovering from a lumbar stress fracture, had a challenging outing, securing only two wickets from two Tests with an average of 65 and an economy rate of 4.64. With Avesh Khan stepping in, the Indian pace attack looks formidable as they gear up for the first two Tests against England in Hyderabad and Visakhapatnam.
As the Test series unfolds, all eyes will be on Avesh Khan, who has proven his mettle in domestic cricket, providing India with a reliable alternative in the pace department. The first two Tests against England are scheduled to take place from January 25-29 in Hyderabad and February 2-6 in Visakhapatnam, offering ample opportunities for the fast bowlers to leave their mark.
Editors pick
