Photo via CricketAddictor

Sanjay Manjrekar gives blunt verdict on Bhuvneshwar Kumar's India comeback

Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s return to the Indian T20I squad after a four-year absence has sparked debate over the timing of his recall. The veteran fast bowler, who last played for India in November 2022 during a series against New Zealand, has been called up for the upcoming five-match T20I series against the Kiwis.

His selection follows two standout seasons with Royal Challengers Bengaluru, where he became a cornerstone of their title-winning campaigns. In IPL 2025, he took 17 wickets, then improved further in 2026 with 28 wickets from 16 matches, averaging 17.89 and maintaining an economy rate of 7.95—just one wicket behind Purple Cap winner Kagiso Rabada.

His ability to control the game with both new and old balls, along with tactical intelligence, has made him a reliable option for India’s middle overs, despite his age among the current squad.

Up nextCricket· 52m ago

James Hopes and Brad Haddin leave Punjab Kings coaching roles: reports