IPL 2026: Bhuvneshwar Kumar Close to Big Record in RCB vs SRH Clash

The 19th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) kick-starts on the 28th of March (Saturday) with a high-profile encounter between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). All eyes will be on the RCB pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who is just inches away from creating a massive record in the IPL.

The veteran fast bowler has a golden opportunity in hand to achieve a unique milestone in the opening fixture. In an interesting turn of events, it could even come against his former side, SRH, with whom he spent several successful years of his IPL career.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar is merely two wickets away from reaching an iconic 200-wicket mark in the IPL. Should he manage to scalp a couple of wickets in this game, the Indian would be a part of an elite club and etch his name in the record books as a fast bowler in the league.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar's Dominating IPL Stint so far

Bhuvneshwar Kumar has undoubtedly been one of the most consistent performers in the IPL historically. He has participated in 190 games to date and has 198 wickets to his name. The right-handed medium-fast bowler is well known for his ability to swing the ball at good pace and has been an essential part of the sides that he has played for.

He has also bowled as many as 14 maiden overs in his IPL career which is a testament to his control and skill. His bowling average reads at 27.33 while his economy rate reads at 7.69. In addition to this, he has recorded two four-wicket hauls and two five-wicket hauls.

Bhuvneshwar began his IPL journey at RCB in the year 2009 and 2010 respectively. He later went on to represent the Pune Warriors India from 2011-13 and gained the eyeballs for his exceptional spell. The Indian later moved to Sunrisers Hyderabad in 2014 where he remained until 2023, establishing himself as one of their premier strike bowlers.

In the 2024 season, RCB welcomed him back into the squad and once again he seems to be a vital cog in their bowling attack. As IPL 2026 begins, he stands an opportunity to bag another sensational milestone in his illustrious career.

Fans would be keenly waiting to see if Bhuvneshwar can bag this achievement in the opening fixture of IPL 2026.