Brad Hogg backs Bhuvneshwar Kumar despite death-bowling struggles
Bhuvneshwar Kumar has been under scrutiny for his death bowling | PC: Twitter
Former Australian cricketer Brad Hogg backed Indian pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar to return to form in the upcoming T20I World Cup 2022, set to be played in Australia next month.
In the series opener against Australia at Mohali, the fast bowler went on to concede 52 runs off his four overs as the visitors completed their highest-ever successful run chase in T20Is against the Men in Blue.
Following three back-to-back disappointing performances in death overs, many feel that the pacer is past his prime now and shouldn't be given more opportunities. However, the former Australia spinner backed him to come back stronger in the upcoming showpiece event.
Speaking in a video shared on Instagram, as quoted by the Hindustan Times, Brad Hogg said that Bhuvneshwar Kumar will perform better once India's frontline pacer Jasprit Bumrah returns to the playing XI.
Here's what Hogg had to say about Bhuvneshwar Kumar:
"Indian fans are worried about Bhuvneshwar Kumar's bowling in the death overs. As an overseas fan, I am happy because it plays in Australia's favor."
"But Indian fans, don't worry because he hasn't had Bumrah at the other end to apply that pressure. In the World Cup, he will, so that's where the batters will feel they need to go hard at Bhuvneshwar. That's where his wicket-taking ability comes in."