Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) batsman Virat Kohli paid tribute to veteran fast bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar ahead of his 200th match in the IPL. The former Indian captain praised the fast bowler for his remarkable longevity and extraordinary understanding of the game during his illustrious career in the tournament.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar is expected to play his 200th IPL match against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) at the Ekana Cricket Stadium on Thursday, May 7. Bengaluru team is at third place in the table with 6 wins in 9 matches.
Earlier this season, he became the first fast bowler in IPL history to reach the 200-wicket mark. The fast bowler has taken 215 wickets in 199 IPL matches at an average of 26.40 and an economy rate of 7.68, including two five-wicket hauls and two four-wicket hauls, with his best bowling figures of 5/19.
Virat Kohli is impressed by Bhuvneshwar Kumar – one of the top 3 fast bowlers of IPL so far
In a video shared by Royal Challengers Bangalore on X, Virat Kohli praised Bhuvneshwar Kumar. Kohli said that Bhuvneshwar is one of the finest fast bowlers in the game, given his ability to consistently perform under pressure across all formats.
Kohli said, “Playing 200 matches is a big achievement, especially as a fast bowler. I know it is T20 cricket, but it gives you longevity and he has played a lot of cricket all these years. All types of formats and he has been a successful bowler.”
“The thing that stands out for me with Bhuvi has always been his understanding of the game and his cricket cleverness. He has probably been one of the top three fast bowlers in IPL history. If you look at his economy, the number of wickets he has taken and the number of dot balls he bowls in every game, it is remarkable. He is someone you can rely on every time under pressure. To maintain that level of skill and execution for so many years is a great achievement.”
I think his skills are second to none – Josh Hazlewood on Bhuvneshwar Kumar
Josh Hazlewood highlighted Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s elite swing bowling skills and sharp game awareness. Hazlewood said the experienced fast bowler consistently bowls the right length and quickly assesses the conditions, leading the attack in almost every match.
Hazlewood said, “I think his skill set is second to none. Swing bowling is at its highest level. The lengths he consistently hits, the way he swings the ball both ways and the way he understands the game is exceptional. For someone who bowls the first over in almost every match, his communication and ability to quickly assess situations is vital.”
“Reaching 200 matches is a special achievement. I believe you are the first fast bowler to do so in the IPL and also the leading wicket-taker among fast bowlers. You have achieved almost every possible feat in this tournament. All the best, hope we can achieve victory.”
It’s an absolute privilege to see him do his job – Andy Flower on Bhuvneshwar Kumar
Andy Flower said that Bhuvneshwar Kumar has shown calm performance with the ball in the last few years. Flower compared watching Bhuvneshwar bowl to watching top batsmen perform at their best and also congratulated him on pushing himself professionally during his long career.
“It’s a privilege to watch him do his thing. It’s a bit like watching Virat bat – you watch Bhuvi bowl. He’s a master at what he does,” Flower said. “Bhuvi, on your 200th game, congratulations to you for the way you have carried yourself both as a player and a person all these years.”
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“You can trust Bhuvi 100% under pressure”: Virat Kohli
Watch Virat Kohli, Andy Flower and Josh Hazlewood explain what sets Bhuvi apart from the rest, and why he’s a modern day… pic.twitter.com/OGcN3dseu7
– Royal Challengers Bangalore (@RCBTweets) 7 May 2026
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