Bhuvneshwar Kumar has made his much-awaited return to India’s T20I setup after nearly four years away from the national team. The experienced right-arm pacer has been named in India’s 16-member squad for the upcoming three-match T20I series against New Zealand. Bhuvneshwar last represented India in a T20I against New Zealand in November 2022. His return comes after an impressive campaign in IPL 2026, where his performances for Royal Challengers Bengaluru played a major role in earning him another opportunity at the international level.
The veteran seamer featured in all 16 matches for RCB during IPL 2026 and finished with 28 wickets. He ended the tournament as the second-highest wicket-taker, underlining his consistency and ability to deliver with the new ball as well as during the crucial stages of an innings.
Shortly after Bhuvneshwar’s selection was announced, his wife Nupur Nagar shared a post on Instagram. Her reaction quickly attracted attention online, with the post going viral among Indian cricket fans celebrating the pacer’s return.
ALSO READ: “Don’t see anyone stopping Bhuvneshwar Kumar from coming back into the ODI setup” – R Ashwin
Bhuvneshwar’s comeback could also prove important for India’s bowling attack. With Jasprit Bumrah rested for the New Zealand T20Is, the experienced pacer is expected to share the responsibility of leading the fast-bowling unit alongside Arshdeep Singh in Shreyas Iyer’s team.
INSTAGRAM STORY OF BHUVNESHWAR KUMAR’S WIFE AFTER HIS INDIA COMEBACK. 🥹❤️🇮🇳 https://t.co/ub92VO4OmH
— CRIC MASTER (@ThakurVish80259) October 6, 2026
The selection could also be a sign of Bhuvneshwar’s wider involvement in India’s plans. Reports suggest that the BCCI is considering him as part of its preparations for the 2027 ODI World Cup, raising the possibility of another opportunity in the ODI series against New Zealand.
ALSO READ: Dinesh Karthik backs Prince Yadav and Nitish Kumar Reddy to make it to the playing XI
Bhuvneshwar last played an ODI for India in January 2022 against South Africa in Paarl. His most recent List A appearance came for Uttar Pradesh against Andhra Pradesh in the Vijay Hazare Trophy in December 2023.
With India’s ODI and Test squads for the New Zealand tour expected to be announced soon, Bhuvneshwar’s return could mark the beginning of another chapter in his international career.
