Bhuvneshwar Kumar returns to India’s T20I squad after four years. Here’s how Ajit Agarkar’s exit, IPL form and domestic cricket shaped his comeback
New Delhi: Bhuvneshwar Kumar has finally returned to the Indian team after a four-year absence. The selectors have picked the veteran pacer for India’s upcoming T20I series against New Zealand, marking his first appearance for the national side since November 2022. His comeback, however, goes beyond his recent performances. A change in the selection setup also played a key role. After Ajit Agarkar’s tenure as chief selector ended, Bhuvneshwar found his way back into India’s plans, adding an intriguing layer to his comeback story.
Agarkar’s Selection Committee Looked Elsewhere
During Ajit Agarkar’s tenure, the selection committee focused heavily on developing India’s next generation of fast bowlers. Bhuvneshwar remained outside the national setup despite continuing to perform in domestic and franchise cricket. According to an ABP report, selector Rudra Pratap Singh had pushed for Bhuvneshwar’s return but failed to secure enough support within the selection committee. The pacer’s name therefore remained in the discussion, but the selectors chose younger options instead.
A New Selection Setup Changed Bhuvneshwar’s Situation
The equation changed after Agarkar’s tenure ended. The interim selection committee, led by Pragyan Ojha, brought Bhuvneshwar back into the national setup. The pacer did not suddenly discover a new skill during this period. Instead, the new selection group placed greater value on his current form, experience and ability to fit India’s immediate requirements. That shift eventually opened the door for a player who had remained outside the setup for four years.
IPL Form Strengthened His Case
Bhuvneshwar also gave the selectors a strong reason to reconsider him. Playing for Royal Challengers Bengaluru, he picked up 45 wickets across the last two IPL seasons. He claimed 28 wickets in the 2026 campaign alone, showing that he can still trouble top-level batters with movement and disciplined bowling. His performances turned his comeback from a sentimental possibility into a genuine selection case.
Domestic Cricket Kept Him Match-Ready
Bhuvneshwar did not sit idle while India moved on without him. He continued to play competitive cricket for Uttar Pradesh and used domestic cricket to maintain his rhythm and fitness. He has taken 231 wickets in 72 Ranji Trophy matches, underlining his long-term impact in domestic cricket. That experience helped him stay competitive before his IPL performances pushed his case back into the national spotlight.
His T20I Record Adds Weight to the Comeback
Bhuvneshwar has already built a strong T20I resume for India. He has played 87 T20Is and taken 90 wickets, maintaining an economy rate of around seven runs per over. His ability to swing the new ball and control the death overs made him one of India’s most reliable T20 bowlers for several years. His return now gives the team an experienced option alongside its younger fast-bowling resources.
Bhuvneshwar Still Has Competition to Beat
His return does not guarantee a permanent place in the side. Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh and several younger pacers remain strong contenders for India’s fast-bowling slots. Bhuvneshwar therefore needs to turn this opportunity into consistent performances. His reputation may have opened the conversation, but his current form will determine how long he stays in the picture.
Is India Now Looking at Bhuvneshwar for 2027?
The New Zealand series gives Bhuvneshwar his first chance to rebuild his international career. If he performs consistently, the selectors could keep him in their wider plans for the future. His swing bowling and experience could prove valuable in South African conditions. So, after Agarkar’s exit and Bhuvneshwar’s return, is India now also looking at the veteran pacer as a potential option for the 2027 World Cup?
