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Bhuvneshwar knows 'how to dominate this format', says Shreyas Iyer

Indian skipper Shreyas Iyer has strongly supported the recall of veteran fast bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar for the upcoming T20I series against New Zealand, pointing to the 36-year-old's extensive experience and recent Indian Premier League success with Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Bhuvneshwar enters the national setup following a lengthy absence from the shortest format, having previously featured in late 2022 before missing over one hundred consecutive matches prior to a brief call-up against the West Indies.

Iyer also highlighted the pace-friendly nature of the pitches at the venue for the opening fixture as a key factor behind the selection.

The series opener is scheduled to take place at Hagley Oval in Christchurch on October 22, 2026. Alongside the veteran seamer's return, the touring squad features fifteen-year-old batter Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, with the captain emphasizing the value of keeping the teenager involved within the dressing room environment despite consistent performances from the established opening combination.

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