BIRMINGHAM, June 29: As India’s pace attack undergoes a generational shift on their England tour, the emergence of new faces like Arshdeep Singh, Mukesh Kumar, and Akash Deep signals the start of a fresh era in red-ball cricket.
But in the backdrop lies a list of fast bowlers who were once vital to India’s Test ambitions but have since slipped away from the spotlight. Here’s a look at six such quicks who were part of the transition but couldn’t quite stay in the frame.
Ishant Sharma – The Veteran Who Anchored an Era
Ishant’s final Test in 2021 quietly marked the beginning of India’s pace overhaul. A veteran of over 100 Tests, he was central to India’s overseas success under Virat Kohli. Yet, recurring injuries and advancing age pushed him out of national reckoning. Though still active in domestic cricket and IPL at 36, Ishant is no longer in India’s red-ball plans—despite fans nostalgically calling for his return after the Headingley defeat.
Mohammed Shami – Injuries That Outpaced Talent
With 229 wickets, Shami’s red-ball record remains elite. But he hasn’t featured in a Test since the 2023 World Test Championship final. His absence is more about fitness than form—despite a brilliant 2023 World Cup. The 2025 IPL saw him struggle, and his exclusion from the current Test squad signals a possible end to his Test career. While his legacy is secure, his ability to anchor the transition was cut short.
Umesh Yadav – The Subcontinent Specialist
Umesh last played a Test alongside Shami in the 2023 WTC final. Known for his raw pace and tireless spells, Umesh was particularly effective in Indian conditions. His away record, however, remained inconsistent. Now nearing 37, he continues to play domestic cricket but seems unlikely to return. His reduced role helped speed up the inclusion of India’s next-gen quicks.
Mukesh Kumar – The Solid Option Who Faded Fast
Debuting in 2023, Mukesh Kumar offered promise but couldn’t cement his spot. He played a handful of Tests, delivering steady if unspectacular spells.
Despite 210 first-class wickets at an average of 21.6, he has since been confined to India A duties. At 31, with younger names rising, Mukesh may already be behind in the pecking order.
Jaydev Unadkat – A Return That Never Took Off
After a 12-year gap, Unadkat returned to the Test squad in 2023 but failed to make an impact. He bowled 28 wicketless overs in the West Indies and hasn’t featured since. His 447 first-class wickets speak volumes of his domestic dominance, but at 33, and with modest recent form, his hopes of another call-up seem bleak. India now appears to favour younger left-arm options like Arshdeep and Khaleel Ahmed.
Navdeep Saini – The ‘What If’ Tale
Saini’s Test journey began with promise during India’s famous 2020–21 series win in Australia but ended just as quickly. Limited to two Tests, his career has been riddled with injuries. Despite featuring in India A tours, his recent domestic form has been underwhelming. At 31, Saini’s story remains one of missed opportunities.
The Pace Reset
India’s bowling evolution continues, and while the spotlight now shines on a new breed of pacers, those who came before played a key role in laying the foundation.
Whether it’s the enduring commitment of Ishant, the brilliance of Shami, or the brief sparks of Mukesh and Saini, their journeys remain part of India’s red-ball narrative. (Agencies)
