IPL 2026: Jasprit Bumrah's lean run 'doesn't define him': Zaheer Khan backs MI pacer

MUMBAI: Former India pace spearhead Zaheer Khan is delighted that bowlers have begun to claw their way back in IPL-2026. “I’m very happy to see bowlers coming back in the IPL,” Zaheer said on the sidelines of a promotional event on Wednesday. “You’ve seen low scores, 155 being defended, teams bowled out for 70-odd. It shows that aggression and the right approach are working.”

At the centre of this resurgence is Bhuvneshwar Kumar, whose consistency for RCB has rekindled talk of a comeback for India. Zaheer believes the veteran still has plenty to offer. “It’s great to see Bhuvi delivering like this. I’m sure he’s thinking along those lines. The IPL has always been a platform to push for national selection and he’s making a strong statement,” Zaheer noted.



On Jasprit Bumrah’s lean run — just two wickets in seven games — Zaheer urged patience. “Every bowler goes through phases like this. It doesn’t define you. Bumrah is aware of it and with games left, he can still turn it around,” he said.

Zaheer also expressed optimism about young quicks, particularly LSG’s Mohsin Khan and Prince Yadav. “Mohsin has had a stop-start run because of injuries. The skill is there, but he needs to stay fit and play consistently. Prince, on the other hand, has put in the hard yards and is reaping the rewards. It’s exciting to see such talent coming through.”

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