I’m very excited for Test cricket as I feel it’s a format where I can prove myself: Avesh Khan

While the ultimate goal may have evolved for the newest generations, with the tumultuous rise of T20 cricket, there remains a steadfast yearning to one day don the whites for their country in the Test format. This very sentiment was articulated by right-arm medium pacer, Avesh Khan, as he expounded on his longstanding fervent desire to compete in the most grueling and prestigious format of the game at the international level.

He rightly stated about already showcasing his prowess for his state team, Madhya Pradesh, as well as in various other domestic competitions such as the Duleep Trophy, and Deodhar Trophy while representing India A. He also mentioned his anticipation for the opportunity to play Test cricket for India, highlighting the unique enjoyment it brings. He articulated his passion for bowling with the red ball and evidenced this by consistently delivering 20-25 overs in a day for his state team, amounting to 300-350 overs in a season.

“I’m very excited for Test cricket as I feel it’s a format where I can prove myself which I’ve done for my state team, India A or while playing the Duleep Trophy or the Deodhar Trophy. I’m waiting for that chance as there’s a different kind of fun playing Test cricket. I love to bowl with the red ball as I bowl around 20-25 overs in a day for my state team as well. In the entire season, I bowl around 300-350 overs so I’m looking forward for a chance to play Test cricket and do well for my country in the longest format,” stated Avesh in a video released by the Board of Control for Cricket in India. 

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Since making his first-class debut in December 2014, the unwearied bowler has represented Madhya Pradesh in 43 matches, amassing an impressive tally of 165 wickets with an average of 22.49 and an economy rate of 3.11. Despite such a commendable track record, he has not been seriously considered for a spot in the Indian Test side up until now. He would be hopeful for a call-up in the upcoming home series against Bangladesh and New Zealand later this year, if not for the tour Down Under.

Like Virat bhai said, he is once in a generation bowler...: Avesh on Bumrah

Avesh and the rest of the bowling contingent have excelled even in the absence of the 2024 T20 World Cup Player of the Tournament, Jasprit Bumrah, during India's current tour of Zimbabwe. Reflecting on Bumrah's greatness and legendary status, Avesh echoed sentiments expressed by Virat Kohli and former bowling coach, Paras Mhambrey, acknowledging Bumrah as a once-in-a-generation bowler. He also mentioned that Bumrah has consistently advised him to prioritize execution, emphasizing that it should be the primary objective for any bowler. 

Also Read: Arshdeep is learning from Bumrah, not feeling pressure because of his presence: Ramiz Raja

“Like Virat bhai said, he is a once-in-a-generation bowler, it is true and we all believe so. His style of bowling and his mindset are different, but main (thing) is his execution, for which we all practice. Whenever I speak with him, he tells me to focus on the execution. If you are thinking of sending down a yorker, then it has to be a yorker; it cannot be a full toss or a half-volley, a bouncer has to be on the shoulders; a length ball has to be (aimed at) the top of off (stump)," added Avesh.

Despite being somewhat costly, Avesh has been among the leading wicket-takers and is poised to potentially finish as the top wicket-taker of the Zimbabwe series if he continues his current trajectory.