'He's probably been among to-3 pacers in IPL history': Kohli praises Bhuvneshwar ahead of 200th IPL match
Lucknow, May 7
Royal Challengers Bengaluru veteran Virat Kohli has heaped praise on Bhuvneshwar Kumar, game awareness and longevity in the shortest format ahead of the pacer's 200th Indian Premier League match.
Bhuvneshwar has taken 215 wickets in 199 IPL matches at an average of 26.40 and an economy rate of 7.68, including two five-wicket hauls and two four-wicket hauls, with his best bowling figures standing at 5/19. He will play his 200th IPL match against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) at the Ekana Cricket Stadium on Thursday.
Ahead of the milestone, RCB players, including Virat and Hazlewood, and coach Andy Flower paid tribute to the legendary pacer.
In a video released by RCB on X, Kohli described Bhuvneshwar as one of the best bowlers in the tournament. "It's a big feat to play 200 games, especially as a fast bowler. I know it's T20 cricket, but that tells you the longevity, and he's played so much cricket over all these years. All kinds of formats, and he's been such a successful bowler," Kohli said in a video.
"The thing that stands out for me with Bhuvi has always been his understanding of the game and his cricket smarts. He's probably been among the top three pacers in IPL history. If you look at his economy, the number of wickets he's taken, and the amount of dot balls he bowls every game, it's remarkable. He's someone you can trust under pressure every single time. To maintain that level of skill and execution over so many years is a great achievement," he added.
Bhuvneshwar's pace-bowling Hazlewood, also talked about his bowling skills and sharp game awareness. The Australian bowler said that the way Bhuvneshwar consistently bowls the right lengths is amazing.
"I think his skill set is second to none. Swing bowling at its highest level. The lengths he hits consistently, moving the ball both ways, and the way he reads the game are exceptional. For someone who bowls the first over almost every match, his communication and ability to assess conditions quickly are key," Hazlewood said.
"To reach 200 games is a special achievement. I believe you're the first fast bowler to do it in the IPL and also the leading wicket-taker among pacers. You've achieved almost everything possible in this tournament. Best of luck, hopefully we can get the win," he added.
Coach Flower described Bhuvneshwar as a master of his craft. "It's an absolute privilege to watch him do his thing," Flower said. "It's a bit like watching Virat bat and watching Bhuvi bowl. They're masters at what they do. On your 200th, congratulations on the way that you've operated as a man and as a player over all these years," he said.
— IANS
Reader Comments
It's refreshing to see Kohli, Hazlewood, and Flower all acknowledge Bhuvi's skill. He's often underrated because he doesn't bowl 140+, but his accuracy and game awareness are world-class. Deserves every bit of praise.
Bhuvi's journey from a domestic cricketer to an IPL legend is inspiring. The way he bowls those deceptive slower balls and yorkers in death overs—pure class. But I wish he got more recognition from the Indian team management in recent years. Still, a true champion! 🇮🇳
Respect from Kohli and Hazlewood speaks volumes. Bhuvi's consistency over 200 games is remarkable—only a handful of bowlers have that kind of longevity in T20s. He's a master of his craft.
Kohli saying Bhuvi is top-3 pacers in IPL history—that's high praise coming from him. And he's right. Bhuvi's economy and wicket-taking ability, especially in powerplay, is incredible. A silent killer with the ball! 🏏💙
I remember watching Bhuvi's debut in IPL—who knew he'd become a 200-match legend? His fitness and discipline are second to none. Just wish he had better luck with injuries, but still, what a career! 🙌
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.