Bhuvneshwar Kumar Says Love for Cricket Keeps Him Motivated

Bhuvneshwar Kumar Says Love for Cricket Keeps Him Motivated

Indian fast bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar has made it clear that representing India again is no longer the biggest goal in his career. Instead, Bhuvneshwar Kumar believes his passion for cricket is the reason he continues to compete at the highest level. The experienced pacer, who last represented India in 2022, shared his thoughts during the latest RCB Podcast and spoke about his journey, mindset, and life beyond international cricket.

At 36, Bhuvneshwar Kumar has already enjoyed an outstanding international career, featuring in 21 Tests, 121 ODIs, and 87 T20Is. Having fulfilled his dream of wearing the Indian jersey, Bhuvneshwar Kumar says he now plays the game simply because he loves it. While another opportunity to represent India would certainly be welcomed, it is no longer something that defines his happiness or success.

The veteran seamer explained that he finally understands the true meaning of playing with freedom. According to Bhuvneshwar Kumar, concepts like focusing only on controllable factors and enjoying the game have become much more meaningful at this stage of his career. Rather than chasing selection, he focuses on staying fit, maintaining discipline, and continuing to perform in domestic cricket and franchise tournaments.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar also credited his family for helping him stay mentally strong throughout this transition. He revealed that cricket is rarely discussed at home, which has allowed him to separate his professional life from his personal life. Instead of dwelling on missed opportunities or selection debates, Bhuvneshwar Kumar chooses to appreciate everything he has already achieved.

The experienced pacer admitted that every cricketer naturally feels they still belong in the national team after being a regular member. However, Bhuvneshwar Kumar accepts that generational changes are an inevitable part of sport. He believes every player eventually goes through this phase and has embraced the reality with maturity and positivity.

The IPL has continued to showcase the quality of Bhuvneshwar Kumar. Playing a key role in Royal Challengers Bengaluru's successful IPL 2026 campaign, Bhuvneshwar Kumar claimed an impressive 28 wickets in 16 matches. His consistent performances proved that experience remains one of his greatest strengths while also highlighting his ability to mentor younger fast bowlers.

Speaking about Indian fast bowling, Bhuvneshwar Kumar praised the Indian Premier League for transforming the country's pace-bowling culture. He also acknowledged the vision of former captain Virat Kohli and former head coach Ravi Shastri, who prepared fast bowlers for overseas success by ensuring home Test pitches provided greater assistance to seamers. According to Bhuvneshwar Kumar, those strategic decisions helped India build one of its strongest pace attacks in history.

Reflecting on his early cricket journey, Bhuvneshwar Kumar expressed gratitude to former India fast bowler Praveen Kumar. Growing up in the same academy in Meerut, Bhuvneshwar Kumar closely observed his senior instead of constantly asking questions. Watching Praveen Kumar, learning from coaches, and absorbing advice from experienced players laid the technical foundation that continues to benefit him today.

Although an India comeback is no longer his primary ambition, Bhuvneshwar Kumar remains committed to excellence every time he steps onto the field. Whether playing domestic cricket, the UP T20 League, or the IPL, Bhuvneshwar Kumar continues to inspire with his professionalism, discipline, and genuine love for cricket. His journey is a reminder that success is not only measured by national selection but also by the passion that keeps an athlete performing at the highest level.