‘IPL ties will help work on variations, perfect skill set before World Cup’
LUCKNOW: India have almost finalised their squad for the World Cup in England. However, there is competition for a couple of places, including in the pace bowling department with Jasprit Bumrah, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Mohammed Shami and Umesh Yadav in the fray.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who has been rested for the first half of the limited-overs series spoke about his plans.
Excerpts:
How do you rate our bowling?
It’s a balanced bowling attack. Everyone tries to put his best foot forward, and in the end leads to collective success.
Where do you find yourself amid tough competition?
Competition is always there but it is healthy as only good and consistent showing can help one to stay in the playing XI. Though there is pressure of performing in every series, we are not targeting each other but focusing on our performances.
How is the team atmosphere?
The team atmosphere is wonderful with the juniors and seniors bonding well. We always make sure that any new player who comes into the side does not feel like a newcomer.
Your career so far...
There have been ups and downs, which are part of everyone’s life. You can’t be successful all the time. Team’s support at the time when you are getting only one or two wickets matters a lot and keeps you in good frame of mind. I always try to give my best and want to see India win all the time.
How useful will be the experience of next month’s IPL at the World Cup?
It is very important as everyone can try their variations and test their skills at the IPL ahead of the World Cup. Your success at IPL would boost your confidence ahead of the England event.
How are your preparations for the World Cup?
I am excited and raring to go. My preparations are moving in the right direction. I am doing nothing special but working on my strengths. I would like to be at my peak during the World Cup.
I am focusing on my fitness too so that there is no problem in my rhythm and strength in England. Everyone has certain kind of skills and I would like to convert those skills into success, helping the side win the World Cup.
Over the last few years, you have become a different bowler who tries everything.
The game has changed a lot in recent years and you need to have all the weapons. You have to be master of all tricks in the trade.
I am using all my experience as per the demand of the game. I don’t hesitate in trying out new things.
How important is team’s support for a bowler, especially when he is going for boundaries?
Team support is important as teammates don’t just keep encouraging you, but also teach you various things. The present lot is the best, especially when it comes to supporting each other.
You tend to start slowly in a series and then improve gradually?
I didn’t see anything like this in my bowling. It might have happened, but the fact is that no one wants to get off to a slow start. I believe doing well in the first and second match of a series inspires you to do well in subsequent matches.