Watch: Mukesh Kumar’s emotional phone call with his mother after Test debut in Port of Spain

By India Today Sports Desk: India’s latest Test player Mukesh Kumar was jubilant as he shared his happiness of having made his debut for the senior national team with his mother. In an emotional phone call with his mother on the day of his Test debut, Mukesh Kumar was seen becoming lost for words as he described his emotions of sharing the good news with his mother, who had pushed him to take up the sport despite resistance from his late father.

Mukesh Kumar, 29, became India’s 308th Test cricketer when he was handed his debut on Day 1 of the 2nd Test between India and West Indies, which also marked the 100th Test between the two teams. This significant milestone in his career came about due to an unfortunate groin injury suffered by Shardul Thakur ahead of the series finale in the West Indies.

After getting the India cap from senior spinner R Ashwin during the team huddle, Mukesh Kumar managed some time in the evening on July 20 to speak to his mother who has been hugely supportive of his efforts after his father passed away in 2019.

The Bengal pacer was filled with emotion as he shared his joy with his mother, saying it was the most important day of his life.

“My mother told me to stay happy all the time. Keep moving forward. She said her blessings are always with me. For her, all that she wants me to do is keep improving and getting better. This moment is very important for me. I can’t explain how happy I am. I made the debut in the morning and in the evening, I am talking to my mother. I am not able to understand what to say,” an emotional Mukesh said in a video shared by the Indian cricket board (BCCI).

Mukesh’s father Kashi Nath Singh wanted his son to become a government officer and had always pushed him toward academics. Mukesh appeared for government job exams in the past but his mother understood his love for the game.

Before his Test debut, Mukesh had already made a name for himself in domestic cricket. He first stepped onto the field for Bengal in 2015 against Haryana and has since played 39 first-class matches. With an impressive average of 21.55, he has claimed 149 wickets, demonstrating his prowess as a fast bowler.

In addition to his domestic cricket achievements, Mukesh also made his mark in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 season. Playing for the Delhi Capitals, he played 10 matches and picked up 7 wickets.