As India and England commenced the first Test of their anticipated five-match series at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium in Hyderabad, cricket enthusiasts were curious about the absence of promising pacer Avesh Khan, who was initially included in India’s Test squad for the first two matches against England. The reason behind Avesh Khan’s release from the squad has now been revealed, shedding light on the strategic decision made by the Indian team management.
Indian skipper Rohit Sharma opted for a spin-heavy strategy in the playing XI for the first Test, deploying the trio of Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, and Axar Patel as the spinners, complemented by pace duo Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj. Given this team composition and the pre-determined understanding that Avesh Khan might not see action in the initial Tests, the decision was made to release him. The move allows Avesh Khan to participate in the ongoing Ranji Trophy, representing Madhya Pradesh, and further showcase his skills in the domestic circuit.
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Avesh Khan, who made his debut for Team India in both ODIs and T20Is, earned his maiden Test call-up as a replacement for the recovering Mohammed Shami. Although he didn’t get a chance to make his Test debut in the ongoing series against England, the decision to release him for domestic cricket emphasizes India’s commitment to nurturing talent and providing opportunities for players to prove their mettle in various formats.
The 26-year-old pacer from Madhya Pradesh boasts an impressive record in First-Class cricket, having played 39 matches and taken 154 wickets at a remarkable average of 22.27. His stellar performance includes eight five-wicket hauls, and he has twice taken more than 10 wickets in a First-Class match, showcasing his proficiency with the red ball.
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While Avesh Khan may not have graced the Test stage yet, his release for the Ranji Trophy match against Puducherry presents an opportunity for him to shine and potentially stake his claim for a Test cap in the future. India’s rich seam bowling tradition continues, with Avesh Khan emerging as a promising prospect for the national team across all formats.
