January 21, 2022, marked the last time Bhuvneshwar Kumar represented India in an ODI. Since then, the experienced pacer has gradually slipped out of the national team’s plans as India moved towards a new generation of fast bowlers. Nearly five years after his last ODI appearance and close to three years since his most recent List A game, there has been growing support for Bhuvneshwar’s return to India’s one-day setup.
With the 2027 ODI World Cup scheduled to be played in South Africa, several former cricketers believe his experience and skill could make him a valuable option. Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravi Shastri, and Kris Srikkanth have all backed the veteran pacer’s potential comeback. Their support is not solely based on South Africa’s traditionally pace-friendly conditions. India’s ongoing fitness concerns have also increased the need for experienced bowling options.
At 36, Bhuvneshwar may no longer be a regular international player, but his recent IPL performances have kept him firmly in the conversation. He played an important role in Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s back-to-back title-winning campaigns, demonstrating that he can still make an impact at the highest level of franchise cricket.
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Asked about a possible India recall, Bhuvneshwar Kumar made it clear that he would welcome the opportunity if it comes his way. “Why would I say no if I get a call? Absolutely ready,” Bhuvneshwar was quoted as saying by Hindustan Times.
However, the veteran pacer is not allowing the growing calls for his comeback to influence his immediate plans. He is currently preparing for the UP T20 League, where he will represent Lucknow Falcons, and insists that his primary objective is simply to continue playing cricket.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s Big Remark Amid ODI World Cup 2027 Chatter: ‘Why Would I Say No?’https://t.co/DbDkwAZnwj pic.twitter.com/XPjhUOfKA8
— NDTV Sports (@Sports_NDTV) August 10, 2026
“Honestly, I cannot say exactly how ready I am. My job is to play cricket, and that is why I have come here to play in the UP T20 League,” he said.
Bhuvneshwar also stressed that he did not enter the tournament with the specific ambition of impressing selectors or securing another opportunity elsewhere. For him, playing the sport remains the biggest motivation.
He added that opinions surrounding his potential India comeback are ultimately outside his control. His focus remains on enjoying the game and performing whenever he takes the field. “What everyone is saying is their opinion. My job is simply to play cricket. I love the game and playing is my passion, which is why I play,” he said.
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Bhuvneshwar remains one of India’s most experienced ODI bowlers, having claimed 141 wickets in 121 matches at an average of 35.11. With the 2027 World Cup on the horizon, his performances in domestic and franchise cricket could determine whether another India comeback becomes a realistic possibility.
