India vs South Africa: 'Wish my father was alive today': Mukesh Kumar dedicates maiden India call-up to late father

It read 'you have been added to the group’ (WhatsApp group). The message was from the Indian team's official WhatsApp group. He then received a congratulatory message informing him that he had been picked for the upcoming ODI series against South Africa. "I can't tell you how I felt. I was so delighted and surprised at the same time. I didn't expect this to be very honest. The feeling was a surreal one. I immediately called my mother and told her. She was really happy and delighted. She blessed me. I got very emotional. My mother started crying over the phone. My mother has supported me throughout my career. I owe my career to her," Mukesh told TimesofIndia.com in an exclusive interview. Apart from Bengal speedster Mukesh, prolific Madhya Pradesh batsman, Rajat Patidar has been added to the India squad. India are scheduled to play 3 ODIs against South Africa, beginning October 6 and will be led by Shikhar Dhawan.

Mukesh Kumar (PTI Photo)The first ODI will be played in Lucknow on October 6, the second ODI in Ranchi on October 9, and the third in Delhi on October 11. A prolific red-ball pacer for Bengal, Mukesh, has been rewarded with his maiden India call-up for his consistent performances, including his stellar show against New Zealand 'A' recently. The 28-year-old was the highest wicket-taker in the three-match unofficial Test series against the Kiwis, claiming 9 wickets in 3 matches. Mukesh, who has 114 wickets in 31 First Class matches so far, didn't stop there. He continued his sublime touch in the Irani Cup as well. He picked up 4 wickets in the Saurashtra first innings and then 1 wicket in the second innings. Rest of India went on to beat Saurashtra by 8 wickets to clinch their 29th Irani Trophy. For his figures