LSN News › India

World · India Bureau

Bhuvneshwar Kumar struggles in New Zealand T20s; Bowling Coach offers counsel

Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who played a crucial role in Royal Challengers Bangalore's recent IPL successes, has been expensive in India's T20 series against New Zealand. Bowling coach Morne Morkel has advised the pacer to focus on his own game and tune out external pressures.

LSN India · 26 October 2026

Bhuvneshwar Kumar struggles in New Zealand T20s; Bowling Coach offers counsel

Bhuvneshwar Kumar faces a challenging phase in international cricket after a difficult outing in India's T20 series against New Zealand. The experienced pacer, who has been instrumental in RCB's back-to-back IPL title campaigns, has leaked runs at an alarming rate in the bilateral series, conceding 99 runs across two matches.

The struggles represent a stark contrast to Kumar's domestic franchise performances, where he has consistently delivered under pressure in high-stakes encounters. His difficulties in the New Zealand series have raised questions about his ability to transfer his IPL form to the international stage.

In response to the pacer's current form, India's bowling coach Morne Morkel has offered tactical advice aimed at helping Kumar regain his confidence. Morkel counseled the bowler to disregard external expectations and noise, urging him instead to concentrate solely on executing his core bowling strategies and game plans.

The guidance reflects a broader approach by the Indian coaching staff to help senior players navigate challenging phases without losing focus on fundamentals. Kumar's experience and track record suggest he has the capability to bounce back, though the onus will be on him to translate the coach's advice into improved performances in the remaining fixtures of the series and beyond.