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'They must have talked about the World Cup' - Ajinkya Rahane's huge claim on Bhuvneshwar Kumar's comeback ahead of NZ vs IND 2026 T20Is

Veteran fast bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar has earned a recall to the national setup for the upcoming five-match Twenty20 series against New Zealand, marking his return after a four-year absence from international duty. The Board of Control for Cricket in India revealed the roster on October 6, 2026, ahead of the opening fixture on October 22 at Hagley Oval in Christchurch, with the tour concluding on November 1 in Hamilton.

Shreyas Iyer will captain the squad alongside vice-captain Tilak Varma, while Jasprit Bumrah has been given a rest. Former batter Ajinkya Rahane praised the selection on his digital platform, noting that the veteran's impressive Indian Premier League campaign—where he claimed 28 wickets across 16 games for Royal Challengers Bengaluru—alongside his stellar domestic consistency justified the decision.

Rahane suggested the veteran's experience could prove valuable with an eye on the 2027 World Cup, while Pragyan Ojha handles interim chief selection duties following the departure of Ajit Agarkar.

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