India’s pace bowler Avesh Khan has identified Test cricket as his preferred format, where he aims to establish himself confidently. He earned his debut call-up to India’s Test squad during the South Africa tour last year, stepping in for the injured Mohammed Shami.
Currently part of India’s squad for the Zimbabwe tour, Avesh Khan has showcased his skills in all three T20Is played so far. He has been effective, claiming 6 wickets at an impressive average of 13.83 and an economy rate of 7.54. Known for his ability to bowl challenging lengths and take crucial wickets, Avesh Khan poses a genuine threat to batsmen when he finds his rhythm.
“It’s a format where I can prove myself” – Avesh Khan
While speaking in a video uploaded by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Avesh Khan revealed his excitement for Test cricket. He believed that he can do well in the longest format of the game since he has done well for his state teams in domestic cricket too.
“I’m very excited for Test cricket as I feel it’s a format where I can prove myself which I’ve done for my state team, India A or while Duleep, Deodhar trophy. I’m waiting for that chance as there’s a different kind of fun playing Test cricket,” Avesh said on the sidelines of the fourth T20I between Zimbabwe and India at Harare.
I love to bowl with the red ball as I bowl around 20-25 overs in a day for my state team as well. In the entire season, I bowl around 300-350 overs so I’m looking forward for a chance to play Test cricket and do well for my country in the longest format,” he added.
Avesh Khan’s potential role in Test cricket for India could see him being utilized as a dependable “workhorse” bowler, capable of bowling extended spells. His bowling technique is well-suited for the demands of Test matches. However, considering India’s depth in fast bowling with established talents such as Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Mohammed Shami, and Akash Deep in the squad, securing a place in the Playing XI will undoubtedly pose a significant challenge for Avesh Khan.
Avesh Khan lauds Jasprit Bumrah
When asked about India’s bowling spearhead Jasprit Bumrah’s recent exploits, Avesh lauded the senior India bowler for his exceptional skills and execution under pressure. He also revealed the chat between him and Bumrah.
“Like Virat (Kohli) bhai said, he is once in a generation bowler, it is true and we all believe so. His style of bowling and his mindset are different, but main (thing) is his execution, for which we all practice,” Avesh stated.
“Whenever I speak with him, he tells me to focus on the execution. If you are thinking of sending down a yorker, then it has to be a yorker; it cannot be a full toss or a half volley, a bouncer has to be on the shoulders; a length ball has to be (aimed at) the top of off (stump),” the right-arm quick added.
Jasprit Bumrah has been in outstanding form over the last few months. His stellar performances were highlighted by his selection as the Player of the Tournament in the T20 World Cup 2024. During the tournament, Bumrah showcased his prowess by claiming 15 wickets in 8 matches, boasting an impressive average of 8.26 and an economy rate of 4.17.
