Former Indian off-spinner and commentator Ravi Ashwin shared his concerns over the veteran Indian seamer Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who made his comeback to the national team after four years in the ongoing five-match New Zealand T20I series.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin stated that while the veteran seamer bowled well in different phases, his pace wasn’t enough to trouble New Zealand batters, adding that it could be a major concern if he doesn’t increase his pace.
“Bhuvneshwar and Arshdeep started well. Bhuvi is missing some luck. He is not executing very well in certain pockets. I have backed him and wanted his comeback. But if he bowls at this pace, it is difficult for him. This is my concern. He has skills and can make the ball swing. But he has to nudge 134,135,136. Then he will become more dangerous. That’s not happening,” Ashwin said on ‘Ash ki Baat’ YouTube channel.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar had an expensive outing in both T20Is so far, registering figures of 0/49 in the first T20I and 1/50 in the second.
On the other hand, former Indian batter Mohammad Kaif also shared his views on Bhuvneshwar Kumar, urging the Indian cricketing fraternity to be patient with the seamer until the conclusion of the ongoing T20I series before they make any conclusion.
“He is coming back after four years. Give him some time. It has been only two games. Cricket changes a lot in four years. We feel that he will pick a wicket on the very first ball. The game has gone to new heights. Playing in the IPL and playing for India is very different. People thought the ball would swing a lot in New Zealand, but the batting conditions are actually good here. Right away, he is back against a strong team,” Kaif said on his YouTube channel.
