Fitness programme helped Bhuvi get back confidence

Before the domestic season began in October, Suresh Raina, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Praveen Kumar and Piyush Chawla planned a special fitness programme at Meerut’s Victoria Park Ground. The 10-day camp under Uttar Pradesh trainer Rohit Wagh proved fruitful. Everyone wanted to build their fitness, but Bhuvneshwar wanted to regain confidence in his expertise – swing bowling. Bhuvneshwar had a forgettable ODI series against South Africa, taking seven wickets in five matches. He bounced back by snapping up four wickets in two Ranji games and then claimed seven in four Vijay Hazare Trophy matches. The best part of Bhuvi’s success in the 50-over domestic event was his speed and swing, as he clocked 140 kph. It was a fine turnaround for the bowler who had struggled with ankle injury since the World Cup and lost his swing. “He (Bhuvi) enjoys bowling in cold conditions and often becomes unplayable. His success in the domestic matches is a boost to his confidence before the Australia series and World T20,” coach Sanjay Rastogi told HT. “Being a natural swing bowler, Bhuvi exploits the conditions well in winters. His fitness level has improved manifold and he is a mature bowler now,” said Rastogi. “We had created a bouncy central wicket for his training during the fitness camp here.” Rastogi said Bhuvi discusses his progress with Praveen. “The two have been training together for long and Bhuvi grew up watching PK bowl for India.” Bhuvi said: “He is my idol and friend, so I keep discussing my technique and he advises. I believe the best learning process starts during a match where you get a chance to make use of your knowledge for success.” Praveen is UP’s leading Ranji wicket-taker this season with 28 wickets. He said: “We’ve played five-six matches together this season, and I find Bhuvi improving with every game. Meerut was the best; we were given a central wicket and match-like conditions during training and it helped us ensure overall development.” Praveen too has not lost hopes of an India comeback, especially for the World T20 in India. “I have been playing serious cricket after a comeback from injury,” he said.

I believe the best learning process starts during a match, where you get a chance to make use of your knowledge for success

BHUVNESHWAR KUMAR, on regaining form