Morne Morkel Backs Bhuvneshwar Kumar After Expensive Return to T20Is, Urges Pacer to ‘Block Out Expectations’

India bowling coach Morne Morkel has thrown his support behind Bhuvneshwar Kumar following the veteran pacer’s challenging return to international cricket after nearly four years. With Bhuvneshwar struggling to make an impact in the first two T20Is against New Zealand, Morkel has urged him to shut out external expectations and focus on rediscovering his rhythm.

Bhuvneshwar has managed just one wicket across the opening two matches of the ongoing series. The experienced speedster has also proved expensive, conceding 49 and 50 runs in the two games, respectively, at an economy rate of 12.37.

Speaking on the eve of the third T20I, Morkel acknowledged the pressure surrounding the pacer’s comeback but highlighted his impressive performances in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

“I’ve got a lot of sympathy for his return. There will be expectations after four years to come back. He has done exceptionally well in the IPL and bowled really well,” Morkel said.

The bowling coach also pointed out that adapting to the demands of international cricket after an extended absence can be difficult, particularly when preparation time is limited.

“One challenge is to block the expectation factor out. Two, leading into selection, he trained for a month, but playing international cricket is a different beast where the margins are small. He had to come in with limited training because of the schedule to get himself ready,” he added.

Morkel Urges Bhuvneshwar to Trust His Experience

Despite the pacer’s expensive outings, Morkel remains confident in his skills and experience. He stressed that Bhuvneshwar needs time and opportunities to settle back into international cricket rather than attempting to force results.

“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 allow him to find his feet in some of the games. And for me, that has been the message from the start when he joined the squad: don’t chase anything. Just be you,” he said.

Morkel further encouraged the veteran bowler to remain focused on his game and ignore the noise surrounding his performances.

“Yes, there will be expectations. But 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,” the South African added.

Bhuvneshwar’s IPL Form Offers Encouragement

Bhuvneshwar’s recent IPL performances provide a strong reminder of his ability to deliver at the highest level. The pacer played a key role in Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s back-to-back IPL title-winning campaigns, claiming 17 wickets in the 2025 season and 28 in 2026.

With his experience and proven ability to swing the ball, India will hope the veteran can regain his best form as the T20I series progresses. Morkel’s message remains clear: patience, confidence and a focus on the basics will be crucial as Bhuvneshwar looks to make his comeback count.