MUMBAI: Former India fast-bowling spearhead Zaheer Khan says he is encouraged by signs that IPL-2026 has shifted back toward bowling impact, with teams increasingly defending totals and getting skittled out less often. Speaking on the sidelines of a promotional event on Wednesday, Zaheer expressed delight at the way bowlers are “clawing their way back” into the tournament’s narrative.
Zaheer credits a tougher brand of cricket
Zaheer’s remarks focused on the recent trend of lower scoring and more matches being decided by bowling discipline. He highlighted how teams have managed to defend totals in challenging conditions and pointed to dismissals that have underlined the importance of aggression when attacking batters.
- Zaheer said he is “very happy” to see bowlers returning to the forefront of IPL-2026.
- He referenced low totals across the tournament, including the fact that a score of 155 has been defended.
- He also noted that teams have been dismissed for scores in the “70-odd” range, suggesting the right approach is being rewarded.
- For Zaheer, the pattern shows that aggression and execution are working together in the current cycle of the league.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s form puts India comeback talk back on the table
At the heart of Zaheer’s confidence is Bhuvneshwar Kumar, whose consistency for RCB has reignited discussion around a potential return to the India setup. Zaheer described Bhuvneshwar’s current output as a meaningful statement, particularly because the IPL has long served as a pathway for players to stake their claim for national selection.
- Zaheer said it is “great” to see Bhuvneshwar Kumar delivering like this for RCB.
- He suggested Bhuvneshwar will be thinking along similar lines about making a strong case.
- Zaheer emphasized that the IPL has always been a platform to push for India selection, and he believes Bhuvneshwar is doing so effectively.
Backing Bumrah through a lean spell; boosting faith in young pace
Zaheer also addressed the rhythm of fast bowlers, stressing that wicket droughts should not be treated as defining moments. He specifically referred to Jasprit Bumrah’s recent stretch, then moved on to a positive view of emerging quicks—especially those dealing with fitness and form in the league.
Jasprit Bumrah: patience over panic
On Bumrah’s lean run—where he has taken just two wickets in seven games—Zaheer urged supporters to remain patient. He argued that every bowler experiences phases like this and insisted the current numbers do not define Bumrah’s ability or value to the team.
- Zaheer said every bowler goes through phases where wickets dry up.
- He noted Bumrah is aware of the situation and, with games still left, can turn things around.
- Zaheer’s central message was that the current period should not be seen as a final verdict.
Mohsin Khan and Prince Yadav: talent with different obstacles
Zaheer concluded by expressing optimism about younger pacers, with LSG’s Mohsin Khan and Prince Yadav drawing his attention. He spoke about the stop-start nature of Mohsin’s progress due to injuries, while praising Prince’s work ethic and the rewards he is getting as a result.
- Zaheer said Mohsin Khan’s run has been disrupted by injuries, creating a stop-start pattern.
- He added that Mohsin’s skill is evident, but staying fit and maintaining consistency is the key requirement.
- On Prince Yadav, Zaheer said he has put in the hard work and is now reaping the benefits.
- He described it as “exciting” to see such talent coming through the league.
