Mukesh Kumar, Akash Deep appointed DSPs in Bihar Police after India careers
Synopsis
Two active India fast bowlers walking into a police headquarters in uniform is not a retirement story — it is Bihar's most high-profile use of its direct sports recruitment policy. Mukesh Kumar and Akash Deep becoming DSPs while still eligible for international selection makes this appointment as much a policy statement as a career milestone.
Key Takeaways
Mukesh Kumar and Akash Deep joined Bihar Police as Deputy Superintendents of Police (DSPs) on 10 August 2025 .
Appointments were made under the Bihar Direct Recruitment of Outstanding Sportspersons (Amendment) Rules, 2026 .
Bihar DGP Vinay Kumar formally welcomed both officers at a ceremony at Bihar Police Headquarters, Patna .
Mukesh Kumar made his India debut in July 2023 and has represented the country in all three formats.
Akash Deep debuted for India in a Test against England on 23 February 2024 at the JSCA International Stadium Complex, Ranchi .
Both cricketers are provisionally appointed, with the move seen as a model for state-level sports recruitment policy.
India fast bowlers Mukesh Kumar and Akash Deep officially joined the Bihar Police on 10 August 2025, reporting for duty at Bihar Police Headquarters in Patna as provisionally appointed Deputy Superintendents of Police (DSPs). The appointments mark a rare transition for active international cricketers stepping into uniformed public service.
How the Appointments Were Made
The Bihar Home Department issued a formal notification under the Bihar Direct Recruitment of Outstanding Sportspersons (Amendment) Rules, 2026, authorising the direct recruitment. A high-level selection committee constituted under the policy's provisions recommended both cricketers for the posts. The state government's stated objective is to recognise exceptional sporting achievement and create pathways for accomplished athletes into public service.
Welcome Ceremony at Police Headquarters
A special induction ceremony was held at Bihar Police Headquarters to formally welcome the two new DSPs. Bihar Director General of Police (DGP) Vinay Kumar personally honoured both officers and extended an official welcome to the force. Inspector General of Police (Headquarters) Manoj Kumar and several other senior police and administrative officials were present, offering congratulations as the two cricketers made their transition from the cricket field to public service.
Mukesh Kumar: From Test Debut to the Force
Mukesh Kumar made his international debut for India in a Test match in July 2023, quickly establishing himself as a reliable seam-bowling option. He went on to represent India across all three formats — Test, ODI, and T20 International — before this appointment. His ability to move the ball at pace earned him consistent selection in Indian squads during a competitive phase for the national side.
Akash Deep: A Ranchi Breakthrough and Beyond
Akash Deep made his international debut in a Test match against England on 23 February 2024 at the JSCA International Stadium Complex in Ranchi. Since then, he has continued to feature for India at the international level, emerging as one of the more promising fast-bowling prospects in the country. Both cricketers are products of Bihar's cricketing ecosystem, making their appointment to the state police a symbolically significant moment for the region.
What This Signals for Sports Recruitment in Bihar
The dual appointment is one of the most prominent exercises of Bihar's direct sports recruitment policy, which is designed to incentivise elite athletic careers by guaranteeing a government post upon retirement or transition. Notably, both Mukesh Kumar and Akash Deep are not yet retired from cricket, making this a provisional arrangement that will be watched closely. The Bihar government's move could set a precedent for other states looking to attract and retain sporting talent within public institutions.
Point of View
This is a test case for whether direct sports recruitment can function as a genuine talent-retention tool or risks becoming a ceremonial honour with limited operational consequence. Other states will be watching.
NationPress
11 Aug 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why have Mukesh Kumar and Akash Deep joined Bihar Police?
Both cricketers were provisionally appointed as Deputy Superintendents of Police (DSPs) under the Bihar Direct Recruitment of Outstanding Sportspersons (Amendment) Rules, 2026. The policy is designed to reward elite athletes by offering them direct entry into public service, recognising their contributions to Indian sport.
What rank have Mukesh Kumar and Akash Deep been given in Bihar Police?
Both have been appointed as Deputy Superintendents of Police (DSPs), a gazetted officer rank in the state police hierarchy. They reported for duty at Bihar Police Headquarters in Patna on 10 August.
When did Mukesh Kumar and Akash Deep make their international cricket debuts?
Mukesh Kumar debuted for India in a Test match in July 2023 and went on to play all three formats. Akash Deep made his Test debut against England on 23 February 2024 at the JSCA International Stadium Complex in Ranchi.
Who presided over the induction ceremony at Bihar Police Headquarters?
Bihar Director General of Police (DGP) Vinay Kumar led the welcome ceremony, personally honouring both new DSPs. Inspector General of Police (Headquarters) Manoj Kumar and several other senior officials were also present.
Does this appointment mean Mukesh Kumar and Akash Deep have retired from cricket?
Not necessarily. The appointments are described as provisional, and neither cricketer has announced retirement from international cricket. The Bihar government's policy allows outstanding sportspersons to enter public service, but the operational implications for their cricket careers have not been publicly detailed.
