IPL 2026: Not young anymore, Bhuvneshwar Kumar plays down Purple Cap milestone focuses on team

Indian pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar believes that at this stage of his career, contributing to team success matters more than chasing individual milestones. His recent performances for Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the ongoing Indian Premier League have propelled him to the top of the wicket charts this season.

The experienced fast bowler has been RCB’s most dependable performer with the ball. He delivered another strong outing, returning figures of 3/28 during his side’s four-wicket loss to Gujarat Titans at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Thursday night, April 30. Despite the defeat, Bhuvneshwar’s disciplined spell stood out in what turned out to be a relatively low-scoring contest.

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Speaking after the match, Bhuvneshwar acknowledged earning the Purple Cap but made it clear that personal accolades are no longer his primary focus. “It’s good that I got the Purple Cap. But I think I have come out of that phase where I want to achieve something individually,” he told reporters following the game. “Of course, I still want to achieve things, but now it’s more about the team. I’m not young anymore. When you’re younger, you naturally aim for those awards, and they come when you perform well.”

The 36-year-old has taken 17 wickets in nine innings this season at an impressive average of 15.53. His performances helped him overtake Eshan Malinga of Sunrisers Hyderabad, who previously held the Purple Cap with 15 wickets.

Bhuvneshwar further emphasized that while individual recognition feels rewarding, his mindset has shifted toward contributing to collective goals. “When you work towards the team’s success and also receive individual rewards, it feels good. But honestly, I’m just trying to give my best. I’m gaining confidence from the management, and that’s what matters most,” he added.

During his 325th T20 appearance, Bhuvneshwar also achieved a significant career milestone. He became the first Indian pacer and only the second Indian overall to reach 350 wickets in T20 cricket. He now has 352 wickets at an average of 24.51, including five four-wicket hauls and five five-wicket hauls, with best figures of 5/4. Only Yuzvendra Chahal has more T20 wickets among Indians, with 391 scalps in 337 matches.

RCB currently sit second on the points table with 12 points, just behind Punjab Kings, who have a game in hand. They will next face Lucknow Super Giants at the Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow on May 7.

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