Is This RCB Net Bowler 'The Next Jasprit Bumrah' Of Indian Cricket?

Royal Challengers Bengaluru seem to have found their own Jasprit Bumrah in the form of an uncapped bowler, Mahesh Kumar. In a video going viral, Mahesh was seen replicating Bumrah’s uncanny action quite perfectly. He was associated with Gujarat Titans in the previous edition of the Indian Premier League. Considering his talent, the Bengaluru-based franchise signed Mahesh ahead of this season. Not only the delivery but his run-up is also quite similar to that of Bumrah. In the footage, Mahesh was seen bowling to a right-hander, targeting his leg stump.

Mahesh Kumar is presently a part of RCB’s squad for IPL 2024. However, the video is from his previous stint with Gujarat Titans when he played a similar role for the IPL franchise in 2022. The footage was captured during one of his net sessions.

The video has managed to capture Mahesh’s seamless application of Bumrah’s bowling style, showing hopes for a brighter future for the talented bowler. An X (previously Twitter) user reshared the video and wrote, “Mahesh Kumar who was part of Gujarat Titans in 2022 is now a net bowler of RCB in IPL 2024. – He has an action similar to Jasprit Bumrah.”

Soon, social media users flocked to the comment section and one of them said, “He bowls more like Bumrah than Bumrah himself.” Another wrote, “AI generated Jasprit Bumrah.”

“Seems a Junior Bumrah is getting ready,” a cricket fan commented, while a person noted, “Bumrah’s action, now in RCB’s arsenal. Are we witnessing the birth of another legend? Mahesh Kumar, the new bowling sensation!”

The video was originally shared by the RCB bowler on his Instagram handle in 2022. However, it has now gone viral across social media platforms, drawing attention of cricket enthusiasts.

RCB to end losing streak in IPL 2024?

Talking about Bengaluru’s ongoing performance in the tournament, it seems like the Faf du Plessis-led side will have yet another disappointing season.

Out of the 10 matches played so far, RCB has managed to win only three including one in the first eight matches. The team recently managed to end its losing streak by winning the last two games against Sunrisers Hyderabad and Gujarat Titans.

Even as the team’s bowling form continues to struggle, the players’ brilliant batting has been a saviour for the Bengaluru-based franchise. Standing at the edge of being pushed out of the playoff race, RCB will now look forward to winning the upcoming matches to continue their stint this season.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru will play its next match against Gujarat Titans on May 4.