Musheer Khan Emerges as Mumbai's Rising Star with Duleep Trophy Heroics

Musheer Khan, the younger brother of Indian Test cricketer Sarfaraz Khan, is rapidly establishing himself as a prodigious talent in the Mumbai cricket nursery. His recent exploits in the Duleep Trophy, where he scored a magnificent 181 for India B, have further cemented his reputation as a batsman to watch out for.

Hailing from the famed Azad Maidan in Mumbai, Musheer honed his skills under the watchful eye of his father, Naushad Khan, a former first-class cricketer. At the tender age of 8, he broke his brother's record as the youngest player to debut in the Kanga League. His bowling prowess, with 25 wickets to his name, also earned him recognition.

Musheer's consistent performances in age-group cricket propelled him into the Mumbai squad for the U19 Cooch Behar Trophy in 2022. The tournament proved to be a springboard for his Ranji Trophy debut. With an impressive tally of 632 runs and 32 wickets, he was named 'Player of the Tournament' and earned his entry into first-class cricket.

Despite a disappointing Ranji Trophy debut, Musheer bounced back in style in the U-25 CK Nayudu Trophy, smashing 339 runs against Hyderabad. His century (139) and three wickets in the final of the U19 One Day Challenger Trophy further showcased his all-round abilities.

These performances earned him a place in the U-19 India squad for the Asia Cup and the 2024 U-19 World Cup in South Africa. In the World Cup, Musheer emerged as India's second-highest scorer with 360 runs and also claimed seven wickets with his left-arm spin.

Musheer's confidence soared after his double century (203) in Mumbai's Ranji Trophy quarterfinal against Baroda. He further enhanced his credentials with a century in the Ranji final against Vidarbha, becoming the youngest Mumbai player to achieve this feat.

His latest heroics in the Duleep Trophy, where he rescued India B from a precarious position with a fighting 181, have further highlighted his potential. While his inclusion in India's Test squad for the upcoming series remains uncertain, it seems only a matter of time before he dons the national jersey alongside his brother Sarfaraz.

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