MUMBAI: Former India fast-bowling spearhead Zaheer Khan said he is encouraged by how IPL-2026 has shifted back towards tighter bowling contests, with teams increasingly finding ways to restrict batters and defend totals. Speaking on Wednesday during a promotional engagement, the veteran expressed delight at the resurgence he has been witnessing from the pace and spin ranks.
Zaheer pointed to the low-scoring trend and the manner in which teams have been forced to fight for runs. He highlighted the frequency of small totals—citing instances of sides being dismissed for scores in the “70-odd” range—and referenced the fact that 155 has been defended in at least one match. For him, the change reflects that bowlers are executing plans with renewed intent. “I’m very happy to see bowlers coming back in the IPL,” Zaheer said. “You’ve seen low scores, 155 being defended, teams bowled out for 70-odd. It shows that aggression and the right approach are working.”
Key performers and Zaheer’s take on India selection hopes
Zaheer singled out Bhuvneshwar Kumar as a central figure in the bowling revival. His steady returns for RCB have brought renewed discussion around a possible return to the India fold. The former India captain/coach-in-waiting type figure suggested that the experienced campaigner still has more to offer.
“It’s great to see Bhuvi delivering like this,” Zaheer said. “I’m sure he’s thinking along those lines. The IPL has always been a platform to push for national selection and he’s making a strong statement.”
Patience for Bumrah as the season runs on
Turning to Jasprit Bumrah, Zaheer addressed the scrutiny that comes with lean patches. Bumrah has taken only two wickets across seven games, and his output has been questioned by some observers. Zaheer urged supporters to remain patient, insisting that no bowler’s season is a straight line.
“Every bowler goes through phases like this. It doesn’t define you,” Zaheer said. “Bumrah is aware of it and with games left, he can still turn it around.”
Spotlight on the next wave of quicks
Zaheer also looked ahead to the younger pace options emerging in the tournament, with special mention of LSG’s Mohsin Khan and Prince Yadav. He noted that Mohsin’s rhythm has been disrupted by injuries but believes the underlying ability is already proven.
“Mohsin has had a stop-start run because of injuries. The skill is there, but he needs to stay fit and play consistently,” Zaheer said. “Prince, on the other hand, has put in the hard yards and is reaping the rewards. It’s exciting to see such talent coming through.”
Zaheer’s comments underline a broader theme of IPL-2026: bowlers are increasingly taking control through accurate execution, and form is starting to swing back towards competition in the middle overs. As the tournament progresses, the performances of established India prospects and developing fast bowlers are expected to shape the narrative heading into the season’s business end.
