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Bhuvneshwar Kumar has struggled to make an impact since returning to the Indian team after nearly four years. The experienced pacer has conceded 49, 50 and 40 runs in his last three T20I appearances, managing just one wicket. While he has shown glimpses of his swing bowling, particularly with the new ball, he has looked short of rhythm at other stages.
However, former India batter Ajinkya Rahane believes it is too early to judge Bhuvneshwar based on a few performances. He backed the veteran pacer to learn from his mistakes and insisted that his recent struggles should not be a reason to write him off.
Ajinkya Rahane Backs Bhuvneshwar Kumar
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Rahane said Bhuvneshwar has enough experience to understand where he went wrong and what he needs to improve.
“I don’t think we should judge him or overthink how he has bowled. He is an experienced player and would certainly reflect on where he fell short and what he could have done better. As far as his performances are concerned, ups and downs are part of the game. Sometimes, as a bowler, you may not find your rhythm, but that is no reason to write him off. Bhuvneshwar Kumar would certainly know what he could have done better,” Rahane said.
Rahane also urged fans and critics to look at the bigger picture rather than focus only on the runs Bhuvneshwar has conceded in the ongoing series.
Rahane Praises Bhuvneshwar’s Comeback
Instead of criticising his recent performances, Rahane believes Bhuvneshwar’s return to international cricket deserves appreciation. He said the pacer’s journey should serve as an example for other players who face setbacks in their careers.
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“For me, the biggest story is that he has made a comeback at this age. We should learn from this that, as a bowler, you must never give up. Keep doing your job, and things will eventually fall into place. You never know; he could take five wickets in the next match, and things could change immediately. Bhuvneshwar is a bowler who certainly reflects on his game, but he is also confident in his abilities and is a confident person overall,” he said.
Bhuvneshwar will be hoping to find his rhythm in the remaining matches of the series and put his recent struggles behind him.
Ajinkya Rahane Praises Arshdeep Singh
While Bhuvneshwar has found it difficult to deliver consistently, his pace partner Arshdeep Singh has impressed with his performances. Rahane praised the left-arm pacer for his rhythm and ability to pick up wickets in the powerplay.
“Talking about Arshdeep, he looked in very good form and displayed a great rhythm. He picked up wickets in the powerplay, both in the previous match and in the third T20I. He is a very important player for the Indian team. He has played more than 100 T20Is and is approaching the 150-wicket mark,” Rahane said.
Arshdeep’s ability to strike early has been a positive for India, particularly as the team looks to maintain its momentum in the series.
India Lead New Zealand T20I Series 3-0
Despite Bhuvneshwar’s expensive spells, India have dominated the five-match T20I series against New Zealand, taking an unassailable 3-0 lead. The fourth T20I will be played at Eden Park in Auckland on October 30.