More than four years have passed since Avesh Khan made his India debut in a T20I against the West Indies in February 2022. Since then, the right-arm pacer has represented India in 25 T20Is and eight ODIs, but his last international appearance came in November 2024. A knee injury halted his progress at a crucial stage, and with several young fast bowlers emerging, Avesh slipped down the national pecking order. However, the Madhya Pradesh speedster remains determined to earn another opportunity in the India setup.
Speaking exclusively to News18 CricketNext, Avesh Khan made it clear that his immediate focus is on delivering consistent performances in domestic cricket rather than worrying about selection. “When the domestic season starts, my focus will be on bowling well and helping Madhya Pradesh win games and trophies. Strong performances there will permit me to get back into the limelight,” Avesh said. “After the MPL, I will get back to working hard on my fitness and bowling and resume my preparations with full intensity.”
The 29-year-old enjoyed an excellent campaign in the 2026 Madhya Pradesh Premier League (MPL), where he spearheaded Chambal Ghariyals to the title. Avesh claimed 13 wickets in seven matches at an average of 21.76, including a match-winning two-wicket spell in the final against Royal Nimar Eagles. Reflecting on the tournament, the pacer described it as one of his most enjoyable domestic experiences.
“It has been a fantastic campaign, both individually and as a team. We have been unbeaten, which makes it even more special, and I have thoroughly enjoyed my first season in the MPL. The boys have been outstanding. Everyone has contributed and we have performed as a unit throughout.”
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Having spent over a decade in professional cricket, Avesh also highlighted the MPL’s importance in developing future stars. He praised the Madhya Pradesh Cricket Association for creating a platform where talented youngsters can showcase their skills before progressing to the Ranji Trophy, Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, Vijay Hazare Trophy and eventually the IPL.
“The MPL is a fantastic platform, especially for young cricketers. Strong performances here can open doors to higher levels like the Ranji Trophy, Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, Vijay Hazare Trophy and even the IPL. Players like Madhav Tiwari, Aniket Verma and Shivang Kumar have already earned IPL chances through the MPL, and I believe a few more could follow this year.”
As one of the senior members of the Chambal Ghariyals squad, Avesh embraced the responsibility of mentoring younger teammates. He explained that sharing his experiences—whether about bowling, fitness, handling pressure or maintaining the right mindset—is something he genuinely enjoys.
“I always focus on the mental side of the game. Whether it is cricket, fitness, handling pressure or mindset, I am always happy to share my experience with younger cricketers. At the same time, I learn a lot from them as well. It is a two-way process.”
‘Strong Performances Will Get Me Back Into The Limelight’: Avesh Khan Sets Sights On India Comeback | Exclusive@megha_mallick | #AveshKhanhttps://t.co/QFXIfojcPH
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Avesh also reflected on his IPL 2026 season with Lucknow Super Giants, where he featured in only seven matches and picked up six wickets. While some speculated that injuries restricted his opportunities, the pacer dismissed those suggestions, explaining that LSG possessed a strong pace attack and team combinations limited his appearances. “There was no issue. We had a strong pace-bowling group, so there were not enough opportunities for everyone. It was not because of any injury or fitness concern.”
He also praised the franchise’s support staff, particularly veteran bowling coach Bharat Arun, with whom he has shared a long association dating back to his India Under-19 and Royal Challengers Bengaluru days.
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“It was a great experience working with him. He was my coach during my first season with RCB and also with the India U-19 team. After the MPL, I will train with him at his academy in Chennai and continue working on my bowling.” Despite Lucknow Super Giants enduring a disappointing campaign and finishing at the bottom of the IPL 2026 points table, Avesh reserved special praise for captain Rishabh Pant, describing him as a leader who gives bowlers complete freedom to execute their plans.
Looking ahead, Avesh has set his sights firmly on the upcoming domestic season and the Ranji Trophy. Strong performances for Madhya Pradesh, combined with continued work on his fitness and skills, could once again put him in contention for an India recall as he looks to revive his international career.
