Morkel's advice to bring out the best in Bhuvneshwar

A much-anticipated factor during India’s ongoing T20I series has been the comeback of Bhuvneshwar Kumar. 

The right-arm quick had been included in the T20I squad for the first time since facing New Zealand in a three-match T20I series back in November 2022.

However, the return hasn’t been smooth sailing, with the 36-year-old having conceded 99 runs from eight overs in the first two T20Is, having nabbed a solitary wicket.

Speaking ahead of the third T20I, India’s bowling coach Morne Morkel has suggested a way through for Bhuvneshwar to feel at ease as India look to seal the series.

"Look, I've got a lot of sympathy for his return," Morkel said at a press conference ahead of the third T20I. 

"The reason why I say that is, one, there will be expectation after four years to come out. He's done exceptionally well in the IPL. He's bowled really well. One is to block the expectation factor out.

"Two, leading into his selection, I mean, there was a month of cricket where, yes, he trained, but this is a different beast coming and playing international cricket where the margins are small. So he had to come in with limited training because of the schedule to get himself ready."

"So the skill and his experience, everything is there. But at the end of the day, we have to respect the game of cricket and you have to be able to allow him to just find his feet in some of the games. 

“And for me, that has been the message from the start when he joined the squad, is to, you know, don't chase anything. Just be you. Yes, there will be expectations. 

“But just every game you'll get better, and every game you'll find your rhythm. So let's not think about any outside noises. Just be you and connect with that."

India have a 2-0 lead in the five-match series on the back of successive stellar chases against the hosts. 

While the opening game saw the reigning Men’s T20 World Cup champions their highest-ever chase in the format, Tilak Varma and Nitish Kumar Reddy stitched a historic partnership to see India through in the second T20I.

However, if India are to wrap up a series win in the third T20I in Wellington, Morkel believes the entire bowling unit will have to be at their very best.

A particular challenge will be the fierce windy conditions on offer, something Morkel is well-familiar with from his playing days with South Africa.

"I think we've spoken about Wellington, especially before the start of the tour. We've planted those seeds. 

“I spoke to some of the boys who were back in India last night and they asked what the conditions are like. And I said, make sure you get a very strong fan at home and you walk into the fan because that is going to be your preparation,” Morkel said.

"I think this wind can impact a lot of things. It can impact batting, your stance, it can impact many factors. 

“But like I said, you've got a short little window where a warm-up and a training that you can now try and get an understanding from how it's going to affect you. 

“And then when it comes to game time, you have to block that out, and really just try and execute every delivery and make every ball count."

New Zealand and India will lock horns in the third T20I on Tuesday, October 26.

Series schedule:

First T20I: 22 October, Christchurch (India won by four wickets)

Second T20I: 24 October, Christchurch (India won by four wickets)

Third T20I: 27 October, Wellington

Fourth T20I: 30 October, Auckland

Fifth T20I: 1 November, Hamilton