When Kumar Kushagra didn’t get a game for the Gujarat Titans (GT) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, he dedicated himself to improving his skills in batting and keeping. This hard work paid off during the 2025/26 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, where he played a pivotal role in Jharkhand’s victory by scoring 422 runs in ten matches at an impressive average of 161.68.
Kushagra’s success continued in the Ranji Trophy and Vijay Hazare Trophy matches, where he even captained Jharkhand in the absence of Ishan Kishan. His transformation was attributed to the guidance he received from GT’s director of cricket, Vikram Solanki, who helped him excel in power-play situations.
Apart from batting, Kushagra also honed his wicketkeeping skills with the help of former keepers Parthiv Patel and Matthew Wade. Their mentorship, along with the supportive environment at GT, contributed to Kushagra’s growth as a player and leader.
Kushagra’s journey reflects his determination and adaptability, from overcoming challenges with facing the new ball to embracing leadership roles in domestic tournaments. His ultimate goal is to secure a place in the Indian team, a dream that motivates him to continually improve and excel on the field.
