The Indian cricket board has released pacer Mukesh Kumar from the squad ahead of the third Test against England, enabling him to join Bengal for their crucial Ranji Trophy encounter against Bihar on Friday. Mukesh, who featured in the second Test in Visakhapatnam, will rejoin the Indian squad for the fourth Test match scheduled in Ranchi from February 23. The decision was confirmed by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in an official statement. With Mohammed Siraj taking Mukesh’s place in the playing XI for the third Test, the Indian team management opted for this tactical maneuver to provide Mukesh with an opportunity to refine his skills in domestic cricket. The upcoming Ranji Trophy clash between Bengal and Bihar holds significant importance for Mukesh, offering him a chance to regain form and confidence before rejoining the national squad.