📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Subhrajyoti07
Sports
22-year-old Jharkhand wicketkeeper-batter Kumar Kushagra named in India's ODI and T20I squads for New Zealand series
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🗓 28 Oct 2026, 01:33 AM
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Jharkhand’s 22‑year‑old wicketkeeper‑batter Kumar Kushagra has been selected in India’s One‑Day International and Twenty‑20 squads for the upcoming series against New Zealand.
Kumar Kushagra, a 22‑year‑old wicketkeeper‑batter from Jharkhand, has earned a place in both the One‑Day International (ODI) and Twenty‑20 International (T20I) squads that will face New Zealand later this month. The selection reflects the board’s confidence in his domestic performances, where he has consistently contributed with both bat and gloves.
The young cricketer, who rose through Jharkhand’s age‑group ranks, made his mark in the Ranji Trophy and the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, showcasing a blend of aggressive stroke‑play and reliable keeping skills. His inclusion adds depth to India’s middle order and provides a fresh option behind the stumps.
Team management confirmed that Kushagra will travel with the squad to New Zealand, where he will have the opportunity to compete for a spot in the playing XI. His debut could come if he impresses in the warm‑up matches or if senior players are rested.
Cricket analysts note that his selection underscores the growing emphasis on nurturing young talent ahead of major tournaments. If he performs well, Kushagra could become a regular feature in India’s limited‑overs line‑up.
The upcoming series against New Zealand will serve as a crucial platform for Kushagra to translate his domestic success onto the international stage and to stake his claim for future tours.
The young cricketer, who rose through Jharkhand’s age‑group ranks, made his mark in the Ranji Trophy and the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, showcasing a blend of aggressive stroke‑play and reliable keeping skills. His inclusion adds depth to India’s middle order and provides a fresh option behind the stumps.
Team management confirmed that Kushagra will travel with the squad to New Zealand, where he will have the opportunity to compete for a spot in the playing XI. His debut could come if he impresses in the warm‑up matches or if senior players are rested.
Cricket analysts note that his selection underscores the growing emphasis on nurturing young talent ahead of major tournaments. If he performs well, Kushagra could become a regular feature in India’s limited‑overs line‑up.
The upcoming series against New Zealand will serve as a crucial platform for Kushagra to translate his domestic success onto the international stage and to stake his claim for future tours.