- By Manik Sharma
- Sat, 06 Jan 2024 03:51 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
IND vs SA: After an innings defeat against South Africa in Centurion, India produced something special at Newlands to draw the series in the rainbow nation after 13 years. The victory was India's first in Cape Town, and it was all about India's bowling performance that did the damage, bowling out Proteas for 55 runs in the first innings.
One of the heroes of the match for India was Mukesh Kumar, who took crucial wickets in the second innings to ensure India remained in the driver's seat. The unfortunate injury to Shardul Thakur after the Test series opener helped Mukesh secure his place in the team ahead of the final test.
"I think I have been able to fulfil the role assigned by the team management. I am satisfied with my bowling and best part is that I have worked hard and tried my best," PTI quoted Mukesh as saying.
Known for his tactical acumen, Mukesh shared insights into adapting to South African conditions. Recognizing the different dynamics of these tracks, he explained the strategic decision to bowl back of length deliveries
"There's a lot of difference between bowling on these kind of tracks compared to Indian pitches. In India, when you try to bowl fuller length the ball moves in the air, but here, if you try to bowl too full, you get smashed. So we decided that we will bowl between 6 to 8 metre length (back of length). And since there is lot of bounce on offer you can get wickets," Mukesh said.
In a sensational turnaround, India's bowling unit, led by the seasoned duo of Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah, stole the limelight in the second Test against South Africa, propelling India to a series-levelling victory at Newlands.
Mukesh's preparation for the match included a unique session with skipper Rohit Sharma in the nets.
"He always tells us about areas to bowl when we seek feedback in the nets. They would tell us 'if you pitch the ball in this particular length and channel you can trouble us'," Mukesh said, recollecting the experience.
Mukesh underscored the need to seamlessly transition between formats when representing the country.
"When you play for the country, you need to adapt and adjust to various formats. If you are playing white ball and need to play Test matches after that, then you also simultaneously need to practise with red ball,” Mukesh said.
Mukesh made a swift transition across formats in 2023– Test debut on July 20, ODI debut on July 27, and entry into the shortest format for the national team on August 3.
(With Inputs From PTI)
