Mukesh Kumar And Akash Deep (Source: X)India could have two Bengal pacers in its squad for the upcoming New Zealand Test series, with Mukesh Kumar and Akash Deep reportedly in strong contention for selection. The Indian team management led by Gautam Gambhir is keen to add more pace options for the two-Test series, with both bowlers making a strong case through their recent performances.Mukesh Kumar's impressive display in the Irani Cup has brought him back into the Test selection discussion. Akash Deep, meanwhile, had already been considered an important option for the New Zealand tour after returning from a long injury layoff.Mukesh Kumar And Akash Deep In Selection Plans For New Zealand SeriesAccording to a report by Cricbuzz, both Bengal pacers are among the leading candidates for India's 16- or 17-member red-ball squad. Head coach Gautam Gambhir and the team management have closely followed their performances and are expected to share their inputs with the selection committee.Akash Deep was already seen as an important option for the challenging conditions in New Zealand. Mukesh Kumar has now strengthened his case after his strong performance in Srinagar.The two pacers are expected to be considered alongside Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj as India looks to build a strong pace attack for the two-Test series.However, it is important to note that Mukesh's selection will also depend on his fitness. He suffered a hamstring injury in late September and will need clearance from the CoE before being considered fully available.Also Read: Akash Deep’s New Zealand Test Case Begins With Irani Cup 2026 ComebackMukesh Kumar And Akash Deep Impressive Show In Irani CupBoth bowlers played an important role in Rest of India’s 167-run win over Mumbai in the Irani Cup.Mukesh was the standout performer with the ball. He finished the match with eight wickets, including figures of 6/33. His spell helped trigger a lower-order collapse and also gave him his 11th five-wicket haul in first-class cricket.Akash Deep also made a strong comeback after missing around seven months because of injury. He took six wickets in the match and made an early impact with figures of 3/25 in nine overs.The Indian selection committee is expected to meet next week to finalise the squads for the New Zealand tour. The two-Test series will be an important part of India’s WTC 2025-27 campaign.It is worth noting that the India vs New Zealand two-match Test series will begin on November 19, 2026.Also Read: Michael Bracewell Opts Casual Contract, Replaced By Nick Kelly In New Zealand Central Contract
