Bhuvneshwar Kumar: “My Job is Only to Play, Rest is Selectors’ Call”
LUCKNOW: Following a stellar Indian Premier League (IPL) season where his lethal pace proved instrumental in Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s triumphant title run, veteran fast bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar is currently engaged in rigorous net sessions in Lucknow, preparing to spearhead the Lucknow Falcons’ charge in the upcoming UPT20 League.
Kumar’s recent IPL performance was nothing short of remarkable. He became the first pacer to claim 200 wickets in the league, earning widespread acclaim for his effective Powerplay bowling, characterized by subtle variations and classic swing. With 28 scalps, including an impressive 17 in the Powerplay, and an economy rate of 8, he demonstrated that age is merely a number for a bowler of his calibre.
Undeterred by Selection Speculation
His dominant display immediately ignited discussions among cricket pundits and fans, with many calling for his reinstatement into India’s white-ball setup. When queried by TOI about missing the coveted India blue jersey or eyeing the 2027 World Cup, the seasoned right-arm pacer maintained a stoic and pragmatic approach.
“I’m here to play, and that’s what I’m doing. My job is to play cricket; judging how prepared I am isn’t something that I focus on,” Bhuvneshwar stated, emphasizing his pure passion for the game over external aspirations. “I haven’t come to play in the UPT20 League because I want to get picked somewhere or move to another level. I’m playing simply because I want to play.”
He further clarified his stance on opinions from former players and selectors: “As for what the senior and veteran players are saying, that’s their opinion. For me, I enjoy playing and I love cricket. My job is only to play, and I’m here for the UPT20 League.” Ultimately, he conceded, “How prepared I am is not for me to decide; the rest is the selectors’ call.”
A Pillar of Domestic Cricket
At 36 years old, Bhuvneshwar Kumar remains one of Uttar Pradesh’s most experienced and influential cricketers. His last international appearance for India was in 2022, featuring in both ODI and T20I formats, while his Test career concluded in 2018.
A stalwart for the Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association, Bhuvneshwar boasts an impressive record of 231 wickets in 72 Ranji Trophy matches in the first-class circuit. He most recently showcased his commitment to state cricket by participating in a Ranji Trophy match against Mumbai in 2024.
Regarding his potential participation in the upcoming Ranji season, Bhuvneshwar indicated that a decision was yet to be made. “There’s still plenty of time, and a lot of cricket to be played before that. I can’t say right now whether I’ll play first-class cricket or not, but my aim is to keep playing as much cricket as I can,” he affirmed.
Nurturing UP’s Pace Future
Last season, Uttar Pradesh’s domestic cricket suffered from a noticeable lack of depth in its pace bowling department. In response, the UPCA launched a “speed hunt” programme aimed at identifying and developing fast-bowling talent across the state. Bhuvneshwar, himself a product of Uttar Pradesh’s rich tradition of producing quality pacers like Praveen Kumar, RP Singh, and Sudip Tyagi, believes this initiative is crucial for strengthening the team’s resources.
“First-class cricket is a big season. Many fast bowlers got injured, and the lack of bowlers was visible,” Bhuvneshwar observed. “Through the speed hunt, we have found a bunch of pace bowlers from across the state. They were also seen in the UPT20 League, and one of the scouted players became the uncapped highest bidder in the mini-auction. Through this initiative, UPCA will nurture young pace talent. It will help in the domestic season,” he concluded, highlighting his continued dedication to the development of cricket in his home state.
