Bhuvneshwar Kumar becomes 'an artist now', says Rayudu after RCB's MI win
Synopsis
At 36, Bhuvneshwar Kumar is not getting older — he's getting better. His 4 for 23 against MI, combined with a match-clinching six, exemplifies a player who has transformed pace bowling into an art form. As Rayudu noted, he's now operating with the control and craft of a master craftsman, not merely a fast bowler.
Key Takeaways
Bhuvneshwar Kumar took 4 for 23 for RCB against MI in Raipur, eliminating MI from playoff contention.
The veteran pacer struck a crucial six in the final over to seal RCB's two-wicket victory.
Bhuvneshwar now leads the Purple Cap race with 21 wickets in IPL 2026.
Former India batter Ambati Rayudu praised his skill and control, calling him 'an artist now'.
Former wicketkeeper Deep Dasgupta credited his cricketing IQ and release point for his continued success.
Veteran pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar's match-winning display for Royal Challengers Bengaluru against Mumbai Indians in Raipur has drawn widespread admiration from former India batter Ambati Rayudu, who lauded the 36-year-old's craft and control as the hallmark of a player operating at peak maturity. Bhuvneshwar claimed a stunning 4 for 23 to dismantle MI's batting before striking a crucial six in the final over, helping RCB secure a two-wicket victory and eliminate their opponents from playoff contention.
Bhuvneshwar's standout spell
The pacer's four-wicket haul lifted him to the top of the Purple Cap standings with 21 wickets in IPL 2026. Rayudu highlighted how Bhuvneshwar's mastery becomes even more potent on pitches conducive to movement, where his ability to generate swing and control combines with precision line and length.
Skill meets cricketing intelligence
Point of View
He's evolved into a tactician — mixing slower balls, managing release points, and leveraging pitch conditions with the precision of someone who has bowled 200+ international matches. His six in the final over wasn't luck; it was the product of net practice and situational awareness. In a tournament obsessed with youth and power, Bhuvneshwar is proving that intelligence and craft compound with age.
NationPress
10 Aug 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Bhuvneshwar Kumar's performance against Mumbai Indians?
Bhuvneshwar Kumar took 4 for 23 for RCB against MI in Raipur, dismantling MI's batting lineup. He also struck a crucial six in the final over to help RCB secure a two-wicket victory.
How many wickets does Bhuvneshwar have in IPL 2026?
Bhuvneshwar Kumar now leads the Purple Cap standings with 21 wickets in IPL 2026 after his four-wicket haul against MI.
What did Ambati Rayudu say about Bhuvneshwar's performance?
Rayudu praised Bhuvneshwar as 'an artist now', highlighting his exceptional ability to control the ball and exploit pitch conditions. He noted that Bhuvneshwar 's slower ball and his natural away-swinging delivery give him a lethal edge, particularly on pitches where movement is available.
How did Bhuvneshwar's six contribute to RCB's win?
Bhuvneshwar struck a crucial six in the final over, which proved decisive in helping RCB chase down the target and secure a two-wicket victory. Rayudu noted that the shot over covers is a known strength for Bhuvneshwar , honed during net practice.
What is Bhuvneshwar Kumar's age and career significance?
Bhuvneshwar Kumar is 36 years old and continues to perform at the highest level of T20 cricket. His longevity, combined with his evolving skill set and cricketing intelligence, makes him one of the standout performers of IPL 2026.
