ICC World Cup 2019: Bhuvneshwar Kumar Was Our Second Seamer From the Start, Admits Bharat Arun

Indian National Cricket Team management surprised one and all when they picked Bhuvneshwar Kumar ahead of Mohammed Shami as the second seamer for their first game in the ICC World Cup 2019 against South Africa. Kumar responded well and played a crucial role in the second match against Australia. As they move on to their third game, bowling coach Bharat Arun has revealed that Kumar was their second seamer from the beginning of the tournament.

Bhuvneshwar was always our second seamer: Arun

Meanwhile, Mohammed Shami started alongside Jasprit Bumrah, leading to the World Cup. His outstanding effort in the ODI series at Australia earlier this year earned him praises from all over the globe. He also became the first Indian fast bowler to win a man of the series award in Australia. Thus, when the team list read Bhuvneshwar Kumar in the playing XI, many were taken aback.

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But bowling coach Bharat Arun said that Bhuvneshwar Kumar was always in the reckoning and rightfully started the tournament beside Bumrah. He also added the Kumar swings the ball well in English conditions, best-suited for the fast bowler from Uttar Pradesh.

“I think in the first place it was always Bumrah and Bhuvi even before the start of the tournament,” Arun said. “Because considering the English conditions, Bhuvi is a good option as he moves the ball around pretty well and is good at the death too. They were always the first two choices,” he added.

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Furthermore, Bharat Arun admitted that Mohammed Shami will have his chances in the tournament. He also advised Shami to wait for his opportunities and grab when it comes your way.

“Yes, he (Shami) will have his chances in the tournament and once you are in the team, you have got to wait for your chances and grab onto the opportunities that come your way,” Arun continued.

In conclusion, Bharat Arun praised Jasprit Bumrah saying it is a dream to have a bowler like Bumrah’s calibre in the playing XI. Arun seems satisfied with the efforts the bowlers have put in so far in the competition and hopes to carry on with the same plan.