Bhuvneshwar Kumar took his first T20I wicket in nearly four years during the second match against New Zealand on October 24. He dismissed Daryl Mitchell for six runs using a clever knuckle ball at Hagley Oval. This early breakthrough helped India as they lead the five-match series 1-0 overall.
* Bhuvneshwar Kumar secured first T20I wicket after four years.
* Kumar dismissed Daryl Mitchell for six via knuckle ball.
* Wicket provided important early breakthrough for India.
* India leads five-match series 1-0 against New Zealand.
IND vs NZ 2nd T20I Live: Bhuvneshwar Kumar finally has a wicket to show for his return to India's T20I setup. The experienced pacer struck against New Zealand in the second T20I at Hagley Oval in Christchurch on Saturday, October 24, removing Daryl Mitchell early in the hosts' innings.
The dismissal came off the final ball of Bhuvneshwar's second over, with Mitchell departing for just six runs off five deliveries. Tilak Varma completed the catch at cover, giving India an early breakthrough and marking a significant moment in the veteran bowler's comeback series.
Watch Bhuvneshwar Kumar's dismissal of Daryl Mitchell below:
Bhuvneshwar Kumar Outfoxes Daryl Mitchell With Knuckle Ball
Bhuvneshwar kept the delivery on a good length, but the ball appeared to hold up as Mitchell attempted to flick it away. The New Zealand batter opened up his body and committed to the shot, only to get a leading edge that popped towards cover-point.
Tilak Varma had enough time to settle underneath the ball and complete the catch. Replays showed that Bhuvneshwar had used a knuckle ball, with the change of pace contributing to Mitchell's mistimed stroke.
The wicket was particularly notable given Bhuvneshwar's return to international cricket after nearly four years away from India's T20I side. He went wicketless in the series opener on October 22, conceding 49 runs in four overs as New Zealand posted 225/4.
India nevertheless won that match by four wickets after successfully chasing 226, taking a 1-0 lead in the five-match series.
Bhuvneshwar Looks To Build On India Comeback
Bhuvneshwar's experience and ability to vary his pace remain important weapons for India, particularly in the powerplay and middle overs. His breakthrough against Mitchell offered an early reward in the second T20I after a difficult first outing.
For India, dismissing Mitchell for a single-digit score also helped prevent the New Zealand batter from settling into his innings. The hosts, meanwhile, were looking to level the series on home soil after losing the opening contest.
With the five-match series still in its early stages, Bhuvneshwar will have further opportunities to make an impact. His dismissal of Mitchell was an important first step in his return, and the video captures the moment India finally got a breakthrough from the veteran pacer.