3 Forgotten Indian players who deserve a comeback

India are currently battling England in a five-match Test series, with the opening game underway at Headingley, Leeds. The series marks huge significance for ace batter Karun Nair who made a return to the Indian team after a gap of almost seven years. Like Karun, over the years, Indian cricket has produced several heroes, many of whom made crucial contributions but eventually slipped out of the squad due to injuries, dips in form, or other lack of spot in the squad. 

Today, CricTracker lists down three Indian players who have been ignored by the selectors but deserve a chance for an international comeback.

3 Forgotten Indian players who deserve a comeback

3. Bhuvneshwar Kumar

Bhuvneshwar Kumar first made the headlines by becoming the first bowler to dismiss Sachin Tendulkar for a duck in professional cricket when he was just 19 years old. He then announced himself on the international stage in 2012 with his swing bowling during his memorable debut against Pakistan.

In Tests, Bhuvneshwar has taken 63 wickets in 21 matches, including 19 scalps in five Tests in England, which proves his effectiveness in helpful conditions. Unfortunately, persistent injuries kept him out of the longer format, but with his control and swing capabilities, he remains a valuable asset India could still utilize, especially in overseas conditions or in T20 cricket, where he is still a useful addition who helped RCB win their maiden title.

2. Shivam Mavi

Shivam Mavi may not fit the conventional profile of a tall fast bowler, but he made heads turn by clocking 140-plus km/h during the 2018 U19 World Cup in New Zealand. Despite his pace, issues with length control and a series of injuries troubled his rise.

Mavi made an impressive debut in T20Is against Sri Lanka, picking up four wickets. However, he struggled to maintain consistency and rhythm due to recurring fitness setbacks. A fully fit Mavi could still be a serious contender for India’s pace attack, especially with his raw speed. The cricketer has been away from cricketing action, but is a solid package if he manages to find his rhythm with the Uttar Pradesh pacer having age on his side as well.

1. Prithvi Shaw

Prithvi Shaw rose to fame at the age of 14 when he smashed an astonishing 546 runs in a school-level match. He later captained India to victory in the U19 World Cup and made a mark in the Indian Premier League (IPL), which paved his way into the national side.

Shaw has featured in nine Test innings, scoring 339 runs, including a century and two fifties. However, concerns around fitness and inconsistent form saw him dropped from the squad. At his best, Shaw is an explosive opener with immense potential, and a return to full fitness and form could see him reclaim a place in the Indian setup.