Bhuvneshwar Kumar earned the Player of the Series award.
Indian pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar on Sunday (19th June) said he was lucky that stand-in skipper Rishabh Pant gave him full hand and told him to do what he wants to do in the just-concluded T20I series against South Africa.
The five-T20I series between India and South Africa ended in a draw (2-2) as rain washed out the last game in Bangalore, forcing both the teams to share the trophy.
It was quite a decent series for Indian pacer Bhuvneshwar as he provided his team with a fine start in almost every match. Of late, the right-arm pacer was under the scanner due to poor performances but made a staggering comeback in the IPL 15.
He continued his good form in the series against South Africa as he provided his team with crucial breakthroughs both with the new ball as well as at the death. Bhuvneshwar took six wickets at an economy of 6.07.
Bhuvneshwar, who was India’s most consistent performer, was also awarded the Player of the Series and was lauded by many for his heroics.
Speaking at the post-match presentation, Bhuvneshwar Kumar said that it was a proud moment for him to get Man of the Series as a bowler in T20Is. He added that his focus is on getting stronger.
“When you get Man of the Series, it's always a proud moment, and as a bowler in T20, it's even better. I'm always focused on getting back stronger, whether it's my bowling or my fitness. I'm playing for years now, my role has always been the same,” he said.
Bhuvneshwar said that apart from his role he helped youngsters. He remarked that skipper Rishabh Pant gave him full hand and told him to express himself.
“Bowl two in the powerplay, bowl two at the end. These things are always the same, but as a senior I always think about helping the youngsters. I've been lucky that the captain has given me the full hand and said do what you want. In that regard I've been blessed,” he said.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar has been named as the vice-captain of the Indian side for the T20I series against Ireland. The two-match series will begin from 26th July.
(Star Sports inputs)