Published By: Sayan Guha

Three Duleep Trophy Stars Who Could Get a National Call for the Second Test Against Bangladesh

The second Test against Bangladesh is still a little way off, but if history has taught us anything, it’s that the Duleep Trophy often serves as a gateway for players knocking on the doors of international cricket

The anticipation around India's squad announcement for the first Test against Bangladesh reignited a familiar feeling. The roster, which included both experienced players and newcomers, was brimming with ability. Rishabh Pant will make his long-awaited return after being out since December 2022. 

Along with the ever-dependable Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj, India's speed assault might benefit from the uncapped Yash Dayal, a left-arm fast who could bring something fresh to the table. India appears good on paper, with Rohit Sharma leading the side and a spin department that includes Ashwin, Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, and Axar Patel.

However, the attention is more than just on who made the cut for the first test. As we shift our attention to the Duleep Trophy, several exceptional performances may influence the team for the second Test. Let's take a look at three players who have made an impression on the selectors following the first round.

Musheer Khan

Musheer Khan is up first. You might recognise that surname—he's Sarfaraz Khan's younger brother. However, Musheer is forging his own identity in Indian cricket. Musheer shone well in the India A vs. India B Duleep Trophy match, scoring 181 from 373 balls. Can you imagine the strain when India B was down at 94/7? Musheer, on the other hand, stood tall in partnership with Navdeep Saini to score a record 205 runs. Talk about keeping the innings together!

Musheer's innings wasn't just about the figures. His technique on a spicy surface and his ability to establish partnerships even when wickets fell like dominoes demonstrated a player's readiness for the big stage. And don't forget the quick catches at the front shortleg. Musheer, at just 19, has the potential to be India's next middle-order diamond. Could he receive his first national call for the second Test? It's difficult to overlook such a performance.

Manav Suthar

Next up comes Manav Suthar, a 22-year-old left-arm orthodox spinner. While Suthar's first innings numbers of 1/32 in seven overs were modest, he turned the game around in the second innings. His remarkable spell of 7/49 in 19.1 overs not only destroyed India D's batting order but also confirmed his status as a spinner to watch.

Suthar isn't just about taking wickets; his control, flight, and how he sets up batsmen make him unique. Standing out is no small feat in a country where spinners like Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja are the first on the cards. With the second Test likely to be played on a pitch that could favour spinners, could Suthar get his first call-up? If his recent performance is anything to go by, don't be surprised if his name appears in the national squad soon.

Navdeep Saini

Navdeep Saini's career has been a roller coaster. After creating a reputation for himself in India's speed assault, injuries and form caused him to withdraw from the international scene. However, if his recent Duleep Trophy performance is any indication, Saini is far from done. Saini was happier to contribute with the ball in the same encounter in which Musheer excelled. He scored his best first-class score—56 off 144 balls—and played an essential role in the record-breaking 205-run partnership.

With the ball in hand, Saini's fierce speed and ability to swing the ball made it difficult for India A batters. He dismissed India A Captain Shubman Gill, followed by Mayank Agarwal, reminded everyone of what he brought to the table. The 31-year-old has the experience and drive to make a return, and a second Test against Bangladesh might provide the ideal chance.

If you were the selector, who would you pick?