Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s IPL Best List: Did He Snub Rohit Sharma?
In the fast-paced world of the Indian Premier League (IPL), every statement, every selection, and every omission by a prominent player is scrutinized. Recently, veteran pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar found himself at the center of such scrutiny after participating in a rapid-fire interview where he was asked to rank his best IPL moments and players. While his choices for best captain, bowler, and finisher were met with nods of approval, one significant exclusion sent shockwaves through the fan community: the absence of Rohit Sharma from his ‘best batter ever faced’ list.
The ‘Best Of IPL’ List That Sparked Debate
During his interaction with Cricbuzz, Bhuvneshwar Kumar was prompted to name his top picks across various categories. For the best captain, he confidently selected RCB skipper Rajat Patidar, under whose leadership Royal Challengers Bangalore clinched their maiden IPL title in 2025. Kumar also lauded Jasprit Bumrah as the best bowler in the league’s history and acknowledged the legendary MS Dhoni as the ultimate finisher. However, when it came to the best batter he had ever faced, Kumar named his current RCB teammate, Virat Kohli, completely bypassing Rohit Sharma, a stalwart of Indian cricket and one of the most prolific run-scorers in IPL history.
This particular omission immediately caught the attention of fans, especially those loyal to Rohit Sharma. Social media platforms quickly became a hotbed of discussion, with many wondering if Kumar’s choice was a deliberate dig at the former Mumbai Indians captain, hinting at an underlying personal rivalry.
A Look Back: The Alleged Rivalry Between Bhuvneshwar and Rohit
The roots of this perceived rivalry, according to fan theories, stretch back several years. Cricket enthusiasts recall an incident from the past when, during his tenure as India’s captain, Rohit Sharma was visibly frustrated and kicked a ball in anger after Bhuvneshwar Kumar dropped a crucial catch. This moment, largely forgotten by many, resurfaced online as fans sought context for Kumar’s recent snub.
Adding fuel to the fire, Bhuvneshwar Kumar had dismissed Rohit Sharma during a recent IPL clash between MI and RCB. This on-field moment, combined with the historical incident and Kumar’s ‘best of’ list, led many fans to believe that the RCB pacer was subtly taking a jab at Rohit Sharma and his supporters. The narrative of an ongoing feud, meticulously constructed by some sections of social media, quickly gained traction, painting a picture of a calculated ‘revenge’ move.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s Resurgence: Ruling IPL 2026
While the off-field discussions continue, Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s performances on the pitch in IPL 2026 have been nothing short of spectacular. After a period where injuries and intense competition saw him fade from the international scene post-COVID, Kumar has rediscovered his prime form, particularly since his pivotal role in RCB’s 2025 title triumph. This season, he is having one of the best campaigns of his career.
In 14 games for RCB in IPL 2026, Kumar has scalped an impressive 24 wickets at an outstanding average of 18.50. His consistent wicket-taking ability has rightfully placed him at the top of the Purple Cap race, making him the leading wicket-taker of the season so far. With RCB having qualified for the playoffs, Bhuvneshwar is guaranteed at least a couple more games, providing him with a strong opportunity to solidify his hold on the Purple Cap and further enhance his wicket tally.
Kumar’s dominant performance is a huge positive for RCB. His ability to consistently generate swing, coupled with his precision in hitting the right lengths, makes him a lethal bowler capable of dominating both the powerplay and death overs. In an era where T20 cricket offers very little room for error for bowlers, Bhuvneshwar’s control and wicket-taking prowess prove that traditional swing bowling, when executed perfectly, remains incredibly effective.
Bhuvneshwar Vs Rohit: Separating Fact From Fiction
The alleged rivalry between Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Rohit Sharma, while entertaining for some fans, appears to be largely a social media-orchestrated agenda. Statistically, in the IPL, Rohit Sharma has faced 76 balls from Bhuvneshwar Kumar, scoring 102 runs at a strike rate of 134, while being dismissed twice. These numbers suggest a competitive, but not overly dominant, individual battle typical of top-tier cricket.
The reality of player relationships in professional sports often differs significantly from the dramatic narratives spun by fans. While it’s natural for supporters to create compelling storylines and sometimes pit players against each other for engagement, the bond among teammates and fellow professionals is usually cordial, irrespective of on-field events or ‘best of’ lists. Bhuvneshwar Kumar has consistently maintained a professional and respectful demeanor towards Rohit Sharma, just as he does with other players in the league. The ‘revenge’ narrative is likely more a product of online speculation than a reflection of actual animosity between two respected cricketers.
Ultimately, while Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s list might have momentarily overlooked Rohit Sharma, his recent performances unequivocally speak volumes about his skill and dedication. As he continues to shine in IPL 2026, the focus should perhaps remain on his incredible bowling artistry rather than unsubstantiated rumors of a rivalry.
