Morne Morkel gives clear message on Bhuvneshwar Kumar's tough comeback in T20Is
(Courtesy : BCCI)
India’s veteran pacer looks to make his mark again.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar has endured a tough return to international cricket, but India’s bowling coach Morne Morkel has backed the experienced pacer to rediscover his rhythm. Morkel’s message to the 36-year-old is simple: stop chasing expectations and focus on being himself.
Bhuvneshwar returned to India‘s T20I setup for the ongoing New Zealand series after last representing the country in the format in November 2022.
However, his comeback has been challenging, with figures of 0/49 in the first T20I and 1/50 in the second. He has conceded 99 runs in eight overs while claiming just one wicket.
Morkel urges Bhuvneshwar to trust his experience
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Morkel pointed out that returning to international cricket after four years is a different challenge, especially when preparation time is limited. While he remains confident in Kumar’s skills and experience, he believes the bowler needs time to settle back into the international setup.
The bowling coach’s advice was to avoid getting caught up in outside pressure and allow his performances to improve naturally as he regains his rhythm. Morkel believes that giving Bhuvneshwar time to find his feet is important rather than expecting an immediate return to his best form.
Bhuvneshwar’s experience remains one of his biggest strengths, particularly when it comes to swinging the new ball and varying his pace at the death.
His ability to control line and length has been central to his success in T20 cricket, but finding that consistency again will be crucial after an expensive start to the series.
Bhuvneshwar’s IPL form raises expectations
Bhuvneshwar earned his India recall after an outstanding IPL 2026 campaign with Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
He took 28 wickets in 16 matches, finishing as the tournament’s second-highest wicket-taker behind Kagiso Rabada, who claimed 29. Kumar also played a crucial role in RCB’s title-winning campaign, demonstrating his ability to deliver with both the new ball and at the death.
However, international cricket presents different demands, with batters often better prepared to target even experienced bowlers. Bhuvneshwar will look to improve his accuracy, control and execution as the series progresses.
India won the first two T20Is against New Zealand by four wickets each, but Bhuvneshwar’s individual performances remain an area to watch. With the series continuing, the veteran pacer will have an opportunity to respond to the difficult start and justify the faith shown in him.
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