Lucknow, August 9: Indian fast bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar has downplayed concerns about his chances of making the ODI World Cup team. He emphasized that his current focus is on playing and performing well, rather than speculating about the future.
When asked if his recent performances in white-ball cricket, including the IPL and domestic competitions, could secure him a spot in the 2027 ODI World Cup team, Bhuvneshwar replied, “I want to play; I am playing. I cannot predict what will happen next.”
The fourth season of the Uttar Pradesh T20 League will kick off on August 14, where the experienced fast bowler will captain the ‘Lucknow Falcons.’ This season will feature 34 matches over 24 days, with the tournament being held in two cities for the first time. The initial phase will take place at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow, where 22 matches will be played over 13 days. Following that, the tournament will move to Kanpur’s Green Park Stadium for the remaining 12 matches over 11 days.
For Bhuvneshwar, this tournament presents another opportunity to contribute on the field while helping young cricketers in Uttar Pradesh tackle the challenges of competitive cricket. He has been part of the league since its inception and believes it has consistently progressed. He sees it as a crucial stepping stone for players aspiring to make it to the IPL and the national team.
“This is the fourth year of the league. We see improvements every year, whether in player capabilities, facilities provided by the UPCA, or their working methods. I am confident about its future. I believe leagues are emerging in every state, not just under the UPCA,” he stated.
Bhuvneshwar views the rise of state-level T20 leagues as a positive shift for domestic cricket. He remarked, “Certainly, these leagues have a future. They present a significant opportunity for all players. If they perform well, they can earn chances in the IPL and eventually for the Indian team. So, it’s a fantastic opportunity.”
Currently, the focus for the Lucknow Falcons camp is less on detailed match strategies and more on ensuring players feel mentally prepared and comfortable when they take the field. The fast bowler noted, “The tournament hasn’t started yet; practice is ongoing. Of course, there will be some strategy and planning, but it’s crucial how you approach the match and your mindset.”
Bhuvneshwar will carry the dual responsibility of being both captain and senior player. Creating the right atmosphere within the team is as vital as strategic preparation. He concluded, “As a captain and coach, our goal is to keep the players in a good, happy, and comfortable environment. That’s our aim.”
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