Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif has strongly backed Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s international comeback, urging fans and critics to show patience after the veteran pacer's tough outings in the first two T20Is of the five-match series against New Zealand.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Kaif emphasized that international cricket has evolved dramatically and expecting immediate magic from a player returning to the national team after a four-year hiatus is unrealistic.
“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," Kaif said.
Bhuvneshwar earned his India recall after strong performances for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in their back-to-back IPL-winning campaigns.
However, Kaif pointed out that playing in the IPL and representing India are completely different challenges. He also highlighted that despite expectations of heavy swing in New Zealand, the pitches have favored the batters.
“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," he stated.
Bhuvneshwar's combined figures look fairly expensive (99 runs across 8 overs in the first two matches with one wicket to his credit), but Kaif noted that his over-by-over bowling has actually been decent.
While Kaif called it premature to judge the seasoned bowler, he emphasized that Bhuvneshwar must fix his no-ball issues, which severely disrupted his momentum and proved highly costly in both games.
“It’s early to judge right now. Yes, he will have to work on the no-balls. That’s changing the momentum for him. It shows 50 off four overs, but if you break it down over by over, his bowling has been decent," Kaif remarked.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar will look to make amends in the third T20I against New Zealand, scheduled for October 27 in Wellington. The visitors are leading the series 2-0 after winning both games by four wickets.
