IPL 2026: Mukesh Kumar Draws Inspiration from Mohammed Shami, Eyes India Comeback

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New Delhi, March 25: Delhi Capitals' senior pacer Mukesh Kumar is keeping things simple ahead of IPL 2026. The right-arm seamer from Bengal is focusing on sharpening his skills, learning from senior pros like Mohammed Shami, and building a strong case for a return to the Indian team.

The Bihar-born pacer, who has been one of the key bowlers for the franchise since 2023 interacted with media at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in the national capital ahead of the new season of the cash-rich league on Wednesday (March 25). The 33-year-old cricketer spoke with clarity about his learnings, aspirations, and a simplified approach that reflects a bowler growing into his craft.

Learning from the Best: Shami's Influence

Having spent considerable time with Mohammed Shami in the Bengal setup, Mukesh highlighted how those interactions have shaped his understanding of fast bowling.

"From him, you always learn something. He has played for India for so many years. If things aren't working for me, I go and ask him what he is doing differently. He always helps," Mukesh said, describing the senior India speedster as a guiding figure and "like an elder brother."

The exposure to a seasoned campaigner like Shami has helped Mukesh refine not just his skills, but also his thinking under pressure.

Focused on Skills, Not Noise

Despite being one of the more talked-about pacers in recent seasons, Mukesh is consciously shutting out external expectations.

"There are many bowlers in the team-Nattu, Lungi, myself. We will work together and focus on what the team demands," he said, emphasising a collective approach.

Instead of setting numerical targets, Mukesh is prioritising improvement in execution. "My focus is on my skills, my variations, and contributing as much as possible to the team," he added.

Working on Variations for Death Overs

Mukesh, who has often been trusted with death-over responsibilities, acknowledged the need to constantly evolve. "I am working on everything-length balls, yorkers, wide yorkers. In T20 cricket, you need all options, especially when there is dew or pressure," he explained.

His IPL numbers reflect both promise and areas of growth. In 32 matches, Mukesh has picked up 36 wickets at an average of 30.61, with best figures of 4/33. His standout season came in 2024, where he claimed 17 wickets in 10 matches at an average of 21.65.

Eyes on India Comeback

Having already represented India across formats, Mukesh remains firmly focused on earning a recall-but without getting ahead of himself. The pacer - who has played 7 Tests, 6 ODIs and 17 T20Is - made his last India appearance back in 2024. But he's not pressurising himself by thinking about World Cups and World Test Championships, instead he's focussing on the process.

"After my injury, I started focusing more on purposeful practice. I am not thinking too much about World Cups or WTC right now. My focus is on what I need to do today," he said.

Yet, the ambition is clear. "Somewhere in the back of my mind, I want to perform well and make a comeback," he signed off.