NEW DELHI: Former India batter Mohammad Kaif has heaped praise on veteran fast bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar after the pacer delivered a decisive spell against Delhi Capitals, helping turn the contest in the early stages. Chasing a score of 176, Delhi’s top order was put under heavy pressure in the powerplay, with Bhuvneshwar striking repeatedly to leave the franchise reeling at 18/3. He ultimately finished with figures of 3/26, underlining why his swing remains a potent weapon even years into his career.
Kaif, reflecting on Bhuvneshwar’s journey, suggested that a return to the national setup could still be on the cards. The UP great took to X and wrote about the emotions of seeing the bowler in such command, noting that the performance brought him back to the time when Bhuvneshwar was still a teenager in domestic cricket.
“There are moments when one gets emotional. Watching Bhuvi bowl so beautifully today brought back memories of the days when he was just 17. I was the UP captain, and was impressed by his control and swing. But selectors said he was too young. I insisted. Bhuvi made his Ranji debut, got Sachin Paaji for duck in the final. He’s 36 now, still troubles the best of batsmen with his swing. India comeback? Why not, Bhuvi still has it in him,” Kaif posted.
The veteran’s impact this season has been a major talking point as well. Bhuvneshwar has taken 10 wickets in six matches, and the latest display highlighted how he can still trouble elite batters, especially with the early-ball movement and disciplined line-and-length.
Looking at the bigger picture, Bhuvneshwar last represented India in 2022 and has amassed 294 wickets in international cricket. He also recently crossed a key milestone in the IPL, becoming only the second bowler overall to reach 200 league wickets.
Match impact and Delhi’s response
- Delhi Capitals were restricted early when Bhuvneshwar struck in the powerplay, reducing them to 18/3.
- Despite the setback, the chase gained momentum through fifties from KL Rahul and Tristan Stubbs, which steadied the innings.
- David Miller then finished things off with a quick unbeaten cameo, sealing the result for Delhi.
While Bhuvneshwar’s powerplay breakthroughs shaped the opening phase, Delhi’s recovery kept the chase alive and ultimately delivered the win. Earlier in the same contest, Royal Challengers Bengaluru had posted 175/8, with Phil Salt top-scoring. In the end, Delhi moved up the table after securing victory, while RCB missed an opportunity to strengthen their position in the tournament standings.
