In a much-anticipated move, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) revealed the central contracts list for the upcoming 2023-24 campaign. While familiar names secured their positions, three Indian players stand out, having clinched contracts that some argue might be more providential than deserved.
Mukesh Kumar: A Fortunate Inclusion
One such player making headlines is Mukesh Kumar, a 30-year-old fast bowler who finds himself in Grade C of the central contracts list. Despite meeting the eligibility criteria with three Tests, six ODIs, and 14 T20Is under his belt since July 2023, questions loom over his future in the international cricket arena.
Mukesh has managed modest figures, with seven Test wickets, five ODI scalps, and 12 victims in T20Is. Critics argue that his performances across formats have been underwhelming, raising doubts about his suitability for the top-tier competition. With age not on his side, Mukesh’s inclusion is seen as a stroke of luck, and unless he stages a remarkable turnaround, his tenure in the central contracts list may be short-lived.
Rajat Patidar: A Rising Star or a Fleeting Presence?
Another player capturing attention is Rajat Patidar, whose inclusion in Grade C raises eyebrows. While the 28-year-old batsman has shown promise in domestic cricket, his international stint has been limited. With uncertain prospects, Patidar’s future hinges on proving his mettle in the upcoming season to secure a lasting position in the Indian cricket scene.
KS Bharat: Navigating the Fringes
KS Bharat, the third player in focus, enters the central contracts list with Grade C credentials. A wicketkeeper-batsman with potential, Bharat’s position might be more precarious than others. As the competition for spots intensifies, Bharat faces the challenge of not only meeting the eligibility criteria but also outshining his peers to secure a more prominent role in the Indian cricket landscape.
Amidst these intriguing selections, the BCCI’s criteria for central contracts, emphasizing a player’s performance in Tests, ODIs, and T20Is within a specified period, has sparked debates within the cricketing fraternity. As the 2023-24 season unfolds, all eyes will be on these players who, whether by fortune or skill, have earned their spot in the central contracts list. Only time will tell if they can turn this opportunity into a lasting chapter in their cricketing careers.
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