Wasim Jaffer believes Bhuvneshwar Kumar may have felt nervous during his return to international cricket after nearly four years away from India’s T20I side. The experienced fast bowler endured a difficult outing in the first T20I against New Zealand, conceding 49 runs without taking a wicket in his four overs on Thursday. However, Jaffer pointed out that the batting-friendly conditions made life difficult for almost every bowler. The former India opener also backed the 36-year-old to improve as he gains more match practice at the international level.
Speaking in a YouTube video, Wasim Jaffer said: “He deserves to be in the team. Everyone had a bad day, and it was a small ground. There would have been some nerves as well. No matter how much cricket you have played, the nerves are there when you wear the Indian colors on a comeback. Finn Allen and Tim Seifert are explosive batters who would not let anyone settle down easily.
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“It is very important to have Bhuvi because you need experience. It will take a little bit of time for him to get used to international cricket. But as he plays, you will see that his performance will keep improving.”
New Zealand posted an imposing 225/4 in 20 overs, powered by an unbeaten 82 off 40 balls. India responded with a thrilling chase, securing a four-wicket victory and registering their highest successful run chase in T20I cricket. Sanju Samson starred with the bat, scoring 67 off 33 deliveries to earn the Player of the Match award.
Former India wicketkeeper-batter and Royal Challengers Bengaluru batting coach Dinesh Karthik offered another perspective on Bhuvneshwar’s expensive spell. He suggested that the pacer’s rhythm was disrupted by his no-balls, which allowed New Zealand’s aggressive batters to capitalise.
Bhuvneshwar began his spell with a disciplined four-run over. However, he opened his second over with a front-foot no-ball, giving Tim Seifert a free-hit. The New Zealand batter took full advantage, hitting a boundary as the over cost India 17 runs.
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Dinesh Karthik discussed the pacer’s performance during an interaction with Cricbuzz. “It was the no-balls that did him in. He’s not somebody who generally bowls no-balls. I am not sure why, but it may have been a bit of nerves. Two no-balls in a game is unheard of for him. So I would put it down to the fact that he’s not as ready as he would want to be. But if we look closely, his first and last overs were very good. However, the second and third overs had no-balls in it and that reflects in his analysis, as those were huge overs.”
India will look to build on their opening victory when they face New Zealand in the second T20I at the same venue on Saturday. With four matches remaining, Bhuvneshwar will have another opportunity to find his rhythm and make an impact as India aim to extend their lead in the five-match series.
