Bhuvneshwar Kumar Returns to India T20I Squad for New Zealand Series

Veteran fast bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar is back in the Indian T20I squad for the upcoming five-match series against New Zealand after last playing for the national team in November 2022. Batting coach Sitanshu Kotak pointed to the 36-year-old's vast experience as a key factor in his recall, particularly with pace leader Jasprit Bumrah unavailable for the side.

IPL Performance And Recent Form

Bhuvneshwar has delivered strong performances over the last two Indian Premier League seasons, taking 48 wickets across 30 matches to help Royal Challengers Bengaluru win back-to-back titles. Kotak noted that India's bowling unit struggled during the T20I series in England in July when Bumrah was absent, as the team conceded 808 runs in 72.5 overs at an economy rate of 11.09. The batting coach also highlighted that the selection panel likely considered New Zealand conditions alongside the fast bowler's strong recent domestic form.

Team Outlook

Meanwhile, fellow veteran Mohammed Shami has not played for India since March 2025, though he recently took seven wickets in his last two Duleep Trophy matches and claimed 37 scalps in the previous Ranji Trophy season. Kotak declined to comment on a potential recall for Shami, stating that selection remains up to the panel. India captain Shreyas Iyer leads the team into Friday's match following a comfortable eight-wicket win in the first T20I against the West Indies, marking the squad's ninth consecutive victory in the format.

Context

Selectors often bring experienced players back into national squads to provide stability and guide younger team members during major international tours. Domestic tournaments like the IPL and the Ranji Trophy serve as primary testing grounds for players seeking a return to international cricket.