Danish Malewar

His first-class record already includes a double century, and his batting average in that format sits close to 50. Figures like these speak to a player who can stay at the crease for long periods and keep producing runs with regularity, which is the kind of reliability selectors tend to value in a top-order batter.

Malewar has been named in the Mumbai Indians squad for IPL 2026, a move that fits the franchise's interest in developing young Indian players. Breaking into the side may not be straightforward, though. Mumbai Indians have plenty of competition for batting places, so his early chances could be few.

When he does get a game, the focus will be on how quickly he can adapt and whether he can make a difference in the limited time he is given. He would be looked to for steadiness in either the top or the middle order, while also showing that his longer-format approach can be adjusted to the pace of T20 cricket. A handful of well-measured innings could be enough to establish him as a dependable reserve batter for Mumbai Indians in the seasons ahead.