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Veteran pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar has endured a difficult return to the Indian setup, conceding over 40 runs in each of the three matches against New Zealand while claiming just a single wicket. Despite the underwhelming figures, former India captain Ajinkya Rahane has urged critics not to rush to judgment, insisting the bowler deserves patience and respect for his perseverance.
Rahane acknowledged that while Bhuvneshwar has shown flashes of his trademark swing with the new ball, he has yet to find his peak rhythm. However, he emphasized that a lean patch is no grounds for discarding a player of his experience and calibre.
“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 on his YouTube channel.
“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 added.
Turning his attention to the left-arm quick, Rahane lauded Arshdeep Singh for his impactful contributions throughout the series, highlighting his ability to strike at crucial junctures.
“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 concluded.
