Morne Morkel backs Bhuvneshwar Kumar after slow return to T20Is

Fast bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar has struggled on his return to international cricket after a gap of nearly four years, taking just one wicket in the first two T20 matches against New Zealand. His economy rate reached 12.37 after he gave away 49 runs in the first game and 50 runs in the second match. India bowling coach Morne Morkel defended the veteran player and advised him to ignore outside pressure and focus on his natural game. Morkel stated that he feels sympathy for the bowler given the heavy expectations that come with a four-year absence from the team, noting that Bhuvneshwar performed very well in the IPL. Morkel explained that international cricket is much tougher with very small margins for error, and Bhuvneshwar had only one month of practice before joining the squad due to a busy schedule. The coach believes the pacer will regain his rhythm as he plays more matches, pointing to his strong IPL record where he took 17 wickets in the 2025 season and 28 wickets in 2026 to help Royal Challengers Bengaluru win back-to-back titles.

Context

Bhuvneshwar Kumar is a seasoned fast bowler working to find his form again after a long break from international play. Coaching staff often lean on past domestic success in leagues like the IPL to help experienced players manage the pressure of returning to the national team.