India bowling coach Morne Morkel has urged Bhuvneshwar Kumar to ignore outside pressure and focus on his own game ahead of the third T20I against New Zealand. The match will be played at Hnry Stadium in Wellington on Tuesday, October 29, 2026.
India lead the five-match series 2-0 after winning both games in Christchurch. Bhuvneshwar, however, has had a difficult return to international cricket. He conceded 49 runs in the first T20I and 50 in the second. His economy rate stands at 12.37, the highest among India’s bowlers in the series.
The 36-year-old has taken only one wicket so far. He dismissed Daryl Mitchell in the second game.
Morkel admitted that there has been plenty of pressure on Bhuvneshwar after his long international absence.
“Look, I’ve got a lot of sympathy for his return. The reason why I say that is, one, there will be expectation after four years to come out. He’s done exceptionally well in the IPL. He’s bowled really well. One is to block the expectation factor out. Two, leading into his selection, I mean, there was a month of cricket where, yes, he trained, but this is a different beast coming and playing international cricket where the margins are small. So he had to come in with limited training because of the schedule to get himself ready,” Morkel said.
Morkel backs Bhuvneshwar to find his rhythm
Morkel insisted that Bhuvneshwar’s ability and experience remain strong. He wants the pacer to focus on his strengths rather than outside criticism.
“So the skill and his experience, everything is there. But at the end of the day, we have to respect the game of cricket and you have to be able to allow him to just find his feet in some of the games. And for me, that has been the message from the start when he joined the squad, is to, you know, don’t chase anything. Just be you. Yes, there will be expectations. But just every game you’ll get better and every game you’ll find your rhythm. So let’s not think about any outside noises. Just be you and connect with that,” he added.
Bhuvneshwar last played for India in November 2022 before returning earlier this month. His strong IPL performances helped him earn another international call-up.
Morkel also explained India’s decision to replace Mayank Yadav with Prince Yadav for the second T20I. He said it was a tactical move based on the conditions and Prince’s ability to bowl yorkers at the death.
