Mukesh Kumar, the rising star of Indian cricket, has emerged as a versatile bowler for Delhi Capitals in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023. Known primarily for his seam bowling in red-ball cricket, Kumar has been entrusted with the crucial role of a death overs specialist by the Capitals.
This transformation has surprised many, but Kumar has embraced the challenge with open arms. “I was told last season to be prepared for bowling at the death, so I was doing accordingly,” he said in a recent interview. To enhance his skills, he sought guidance from Ishant Sharma, his experienced teammate at DC. Sharma’s expertise helped Kumar develop a repertoire of slower balls, knuckle balls, and wide yorkers.
Kumar’s effectiveness in the death overs was evident in Delhi Capitals’ thrilling victory over Gujarat Titans. Defending 18 runs in the final over, Kumar stuck to his plan of bowling slower balls and low full-tosses, ultimately securing the win for his team.
Jasprit Bumrah, the Indian pace spearhead, has also played a significant role in Kumar’s development. “I was focusing on yorkers last season, but Jassi bhai made me realize that a yorker’s effectiveness depends on the conditions and the pace of the pitch,” Kumar explained. “If it is slightly slower, an attempted yorker may end up landing in the slot, so I am focusing more on the slower ball this season.”
While yorkers remain a staple in T20 cricket, each IPL edition brings its own flavor in terms of containing range-hitters. “Wide yorkers are trending this season, but you cannot overdo it upfront and waste the new ball,” Kumar said. “You have to try for wickets upfront, so that’s the risk you take by bowling in line and risking the batters going after it.”
Kumar’s versatility and adaptability have made him a valuable asset for Delhi Capitals. His ability to bowl both seam and swing, as well as his effectiveness in the death overs, has given the team a much-needed edge in the competition. As the IPL progresses, Kumar is poised to play an even more significant role in the Capitals’ quest for glory.
