As the IPL 2025 mega auction approaches, franchises are evaluating players to strengthen their squads. One such player is Mukesh Kumar, a right-arm medium-fast bowler known for his precision in line and length and his ability to extract seam movement off the pitch.
His disciplined approach and recent international experience make him a valuable prospect for teams seeking to bolster their pace attack with backup options for pitches that aid movement.
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Mukesh Kumar made his international debut across all formats in 2023 during India’s tour of the West Indies, becoming one of the few players to achieve this milestone before participating in the IPL.
In the IPL, he has played exclusively for the Delhi Capitals from 2023 to 2024, featuring in 20 matches and taking 24 wickets at an average of 28.9. While his economy rate of 10.43 is on the higher side, his ability to swing the new ball and his potential in Test cricket highlight his capabilities as a frontline bowler.
Several teams could benefit from Mukesh Kumar’s skills, particularly those that are likely to look for quality Indian pacers due to home pitches. Notably, Punjab Kings, Kolkata Knight Riders, and Gujarat Titans are likely to pursue the Indian pacer in the IPL 2025 auction.
Punjab Kings have the largest remaining purse among all franchises, providing them with the flexibility to invest in key players. Historically, PBKS have struggled with their bowling consistency, often lacking a reliable Indian pacer to lead the attack.
Mukesh Kumar’s ability to maintain tight lines and generate movement could address this gap. His proficiency with the new ball would be advantageous on the Mohali pitch, which traditionally offers assistance to seamers.
By integrating Mukesh into their lineup, PBKS can enhance their bowling depth and add a dependable option to their pace arsenal.
Kolkata Knight Riders have a history of nurturing and developing Indian fast bowlers. With a moderate budget, KKR will aim to make strategic acquisitions to strengthen their squad.
Mukesh Kumar’s disciplined bowling style aligns with KKR’s emphasis on building a robust bowling unit. The Eden Gardens pitch in Kolkata has evolved to offer assistance to fast bowlers, especially under lights.
Mukesh’s ability to exploit such conditions with his seam movement makes him a valuable addition. His inclusion would provide KKR with a reliable option to partner with their existing pace attack, enhancing their overall bowling strategy.
Gujarat Titans, after a stellar debut season and a not-so-greatfollow-up season, are looking to build a balanced squad to maintain their competitive edge.
Their home ground in Ahmedabad offers a pitch that can be conducive to fast bowling, especially in the early stages of the game. Mukesh Kumar’s ability to swing the ball and maintain consistent lines would be beneficial in such conditions.
Additionally, his experience in international cricket adds depth to GT’s bowling lineup. By acquiring Mukesh, Gujarat Titans can strengthen their pace department and ensure they have quality options to exploit favorable bowling conditions.
Mukesh Kumar’s meticulous bowling approach, combined with his recent international exposure, makes him a compelling option for IPL franchises aiming to enhance their pace attack.
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Teams like Punjab Kings, Kolkata Knight Riders, and Gujarat Titans, with their respective needs and available budgets, are well-positioned to target Mukesh in the upcoming auction. His ability to deliver with the new ball and adapt to different pitch conditions could provide the balance and depth these teams seek in their bowling units.
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