Improving India’s bowling remains the team’s priority ahead of the T20 World Cup next month, according to skipper Rohit Sharma, who also believes seamer Bhuvneshwar Kumar can recover from a recent slump.
India defeated Australia by six wickets to win the three-match T20 series 2-1, and will now host South Africa in a white-ball series beginning on Wednesday.
“We know he’s had more good days than bad days in the last so many years,” Rohit said of the veteran fast bowler after the game.
“Yes, his recent performance has not been what he desires, but that can happen to any of the bowlers.” You can see the opposition as well; bowling in the death is not easy.”
The 32-year-old Kumar, who is still a key member of the team’s plans for the T20 World Cup in Australia, had only two wickets from two matches and a high economy rate of 13.00.
In the three T20 internationals against the Proteas, Rohit said the team will devise a better strategy to help Kumar return to his miserly ways in the final overs.
“We’ve been working on some execution plans, and hopefully we’ll be able to give him more options to bowl in the death and he’ll be as good as he used to be.” “And he’s not lacking in confidence,” the Indian captain said.
“We want him back as soon as possible because he has bowled those difficult overs before.” As a group, we have faith in his abilities. It’s time for us to continue to believe in him and support his skill set.”
Pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah and fellow quick Harshal Patel returned from injury, and Rohit predicted that the bowling unit would improve with more game time.
“Bowling is something that we have a lot more focus on right now than batting,” Rohit explained.
“Those three (Bumrah, Harshal, and Axar Patel) who haven’t played much cricket in the past are playing now, so you’ve got to give them some time and get them back (in rhythm) as soon as possible,” Rohit explained.
“It’s just a matter of gaining their trust, and with the type of people they are, I don’t think it will take long.”
The first Twenty20 international against South Africa is set for Wednesday at 15:30 SA time.
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