Avesh has been a standout performer, claiming an impressive 149 wickets in just 38 first-class games, with an average of 22.65.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has recently made an announcement regarding the addition of pacer Avesh Khan to India's squad for the second Test against South Africa. This decision comes as a replacement for Mohammed Shami, who unfortunately remains unavailable due to an injury.
Shami was initially selected for the South Africa tour, but regrettably, he couldn't prove his fitness in time for the series' commencement. Consequently, Shami was unable to participate in the first Test held in Centurion, as the BCCI patiently awaited his recovery. However, as Shami's injury persisted, he was also ruled out of the second Test, leading the board to appoint Avesh as his replacement.
The BCCI, in a release, said: "The Men's Selection Committee has named Mr Avesh Khan as a replacement for Mr Mohd. Shami for the second Test against South Africa to be played from 3rd-7th January 2024 in Cape Town."
Avesh has been a standout performer, claiming an impressive 149 wickets in just 38 first-class games, with an average of 22.65. Prior to the Test series, he was also a key member of the Indian team that triumphed over South Africa in the three-match ODI series.
Currently, Avesh is showcasing his skills with the India A side during their four-day tour match against South Africa A in Benoni. In the first innings, he delivered a remarkable performance, taking 5 wickets for just 54 runs in 23.3 overs, contributing significantly to the hosts being bowled out for 263.
Avesh's inclusion in the Indian pace bowling unit comes as a much-needed boost, especially after the bowlers struggled to make an impact in the Centurion Test. India's captain, Rohit Sharma, openly expressed his disappointment with the lackluster performances of Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishan, and Shardul Thakur, emphasizing the importance of their support to the talented Jasprit Bumrah.
"This was not a 400-run wicket and we gave too many runs. We sprayed the ball all around, but it happens. One can't depend on one particular bowler (Bumrah), the other three pacers also needed to perform their roles, we could learn from how South Africa bowled," Rohit said after the match.
India's squad for 2nd Test: Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Prasidh Krishna, KS Bharat (wk), Abhimanyu Easwaran, Avesh Khan
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 "SA vs IND: Avesh Khan added to India's squad ahead of 2nd Test against South Africa")
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