Bhuvneshwar Kumar has equalled a stellar record in the IPL 2026 match between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Mumbai Indians on Sunday (May 10).
In a stunning powerplay masterclass during the match against Mumbai Indians, the RCB pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar picked up three wickets to race to 20 wickets for the season - equalling Jasprit Bumrah's record of four IPL campaigns with 20-plus scalps.
Kumar, playing for RCB after being retained post their 2025 title win, ripped through MI's top order at Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur.
He dismissed MI talisman Rohit Sharma, Ryan Rickelton and Suryakumar Yadav inside the first two overs, sending the visitors into early disarray at an economy of just five. The spell took his 2026
tally from 17 to 20, sealing his place alongside Bumrah.
IPL 2026: Bhuvneshwar Kumar joins Elite List
The 36-year-old now joins an elite list. Yuzvendra Chahal leads with five seasons (2015, 2016, 2020, 2022, 2023). Lasith Malinga, Bumrah (2017, 2020, 2021, 2024) and Kumar (2014, 2016, 2017, 2026) follow with four each. He has now equalled Bumrah and Malinga for most 20+ wickets in an IPL season for a pacer.
Bhuvi's swing and control have been the highlight of RCB's campaign. He currently boasts the best economy among pacers and has consistently delivered in the powerplay and at death.
In contrast, MI's Bumrah has endured a nightmare season, managing just two wickets in eight games. Defending champions RCB, who have relied heavily on Kumar's experience, will hope his latest milestone sparks a strong push towards the playoffs. For the veteran, it is yet another chapter in a remarkable late-career resurgence.
The veteran Indian pacer ended up picking 4 wickets as MI were restricted to a paltry score of 166/7 at the end of their full quota of overs.
