IPL 2016: Bhuvneshwar Kumar finds a mentor in Ashish Nehra
India international, Bhuvneshwar Kumar has been in scintillating form in this year's Vivo Indian Premier League as he has gone on to claim 10 wickets in the seven matches that he has played for the David Warner-led Sunrisers Hyderabad side. The 26-year-old Uttar Pradesh right-arm pacer has not only featured in 12 Test matches and 57 One Day International matches for the ‘Men in Blue’ but has also, gone on to take 89 international wickets for his national side.
Although, not in the best of forms in the recent past, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who has the rare ability to swing the ball both ways, has finally found the right rhythm and has generously praised his fellow Sunrisers Hyderabad colleague and Team India veteran, Ashish Nehra for providing the former with some valuable bowling tips.
According to an interview given to IANS, Bhuvneshwar Kumar said, “Getting to learn a lot from Nehra. I have played alongside him in the India jersey for one or two months. Now am getting to learn a lot from him in IPL; he is a bowler who keeps sharing his experience with others and that helps a lot.”
“If I do something wrong, he comes up and guides me in the right way and the tip he shares is very helpful. I have enjoyed playing alongside him,” the 26-year-old added.
Praveen Kumar was Bhuvaneshwar's role model growing up
The Uttar Pradesh man also named Praveen Kumar as his role model while growing up. Further, when asked about a cricketer with whom he would want to work together in the near future, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, or Bhuvi as he is better known as to his teammates, took the name of the former Pakistan captain and cricket legend, Wasim Akram.
“Praveen Kumar has been my idol, one whom I have looked up to. We have quite a similar bowling style. I have watched him a lot both in international cricket and in Ranji Trophy as well. Wasim Akram is one of my favourite bowlers when it comes to bowlers outside India. I would want to work him someday soon,” Bhuvneshwar told IANS.
Speaking on a similar line, the Sunrisers Hyderabad bowling spearhead feels blessed to work alongside the legendary duo of VVS Laxman and Muttiah Muralitharan in the Hyderabad-based franchise's dressing room.
According to Kumar, “When it comes to Laxman, at the start of IPL, the first two matches I did not bowl well, I went for plenty. He came to me and gave me confidence and told me not to worry and give my best. He boosted me up and has given me lot of confidence on how to perform well in the next matches. He has had a great role in the Hyderabad side.”
“When you talk about Murali, he is the bowling coach. He wants and tries to keep a good and positive atmosphere in the team and see that no negative vibes come into the side,” he added.