Can Bhuvneshwar Kumar become the next all-rounder of Indian cricket?

Can Bhuvneshwar Kumar be the next all-rounder of Indian cricket?

Seldom will you find a situation in modern day cricket, where the bowling attack of a team primarily revolves around a comparatively new bowler. Yes, I am referring to high flying Team India and the young bowler under reference is Bhuvneshwar Kumar. The way he has performed in the recent times, he really deserves to be a lead bowler. Personally, I like the fact that even when he is not able to get a wicket, he does not give many runs. He is also emerging as very dependable fielder. These might appear to be small contributing factors but when I see this in light of his hidden ability to bat as well, he appears to be a complete package.

I have a strong belief that if nourished properly by the coach and management, he will certainly fill the void of a capable all-rounder especially after the retirement of Yuvraj Singh.

Many years back, the legend Sunil Gavaskar, in one of his columns in a leading newspaper, had clearly underlined the need for a bowler to stay focused on his distinct style. Polishing other skills like batting and fielding is the second priority, which should not hamper the basic role of a bowler. This is what Bhuvneshwar Kumar should be following in totality.

Also, many of the fans expect him to take a couple of wickets every time he comes out to bowl. He is capable of doing this, but unless he has got the exposure to every kind of pitch in India and abroad (flat, dustbowl or bouncy), expecting miracles is not fair.

I remember that Sunil Gavaskar had once commented on the bowling of Ajit Agarkar. He had said that in case Agarkar was allowed to bowl only 4 balls per over, he would do wonders. This is not precisely the case with Bhuvneshwar Kumar, but his line and length does get affected in case he is not able to get a break.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar has been the only good swing bowler in the recent times. After the legendary Kapil Dev, Zaheer Khan took charge for many years, but he has not been able to outshine in his recent comeback. So the onus lies on Bhuvneshwar Kumar. He is very focused, dedicated and hard working. Not only does he put in extra efforts to maintain the line and length, but also keeps trying to swing the ball on either side.

Another very vital, positive issue is his strength of bowling long spells without compromising on speed line and length. The only advice I would like to give him is to learn to bear the pressure even when he is not getting the desired result. Normally he does not give much space to the batsmen, but under stress, his gestures show visible tension. He thereby ends up making mistakes.

What I intend to convey is that Bhuvneshwar Kumar should be counseled by the coach that he is doing fairly well and has got a long career waiting ahead. With a little bit of patience and learning, he will become a star performer for many years for Team India.