Bhuvneshwar Kumar has made his long-awaited return to the Indian cricket team after nearly four years away from international cricket. The experienced right-arm pacer featured in India’s first T20I against New Zealand on Thursday, October 22, but endured a difficult outing, finishing wicketless after conceding 49 runs in his four overs. Despite the expensive comeback, Bhuvneshwar is expected to remain in contention for India’s playing XI for the second T20I at Hagley Oval in Christchurch on Saturday, October 24.
The Meerut-born bowler has claimed 90 wickets in 89 T20Is, and his experience could prove valuable as India look to strengthen their bowling attack. Ahead of the second T20I, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) shared a video on social media in which Bhuvneshwar opened up about his return to international cricket, his mindset and the lessons he has learnt over the past four years.
In the video shared by the BCCI, Bhuvneshwar described representing India as one of the greatest honours a cricketer can experience. The 36-year-old expressed happiness at getting another opportunity to wear the national jersey, while explaining that he is approaching this phase of his career without placing unnecessary expectations on himself.
“Apni country ko represent karne se bada pride bahut hi kam hota hai. I am getting that again, so really happy. Jis headspace mein hu (usme) bahut simple hai, koi expectation nahi hai mujhe khud se. I think that’s how things worked out for me in the last 3-4 years. Koi expectation nahi hai, just keep doing your work,” Bhuvneshwar Kumar said.
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He also explained how staying focused on the present has helped him develop as both a cricketer and an individual. “I know mai country ke liye nahi khela, par jo cheezein maine kari, jo maturity mere andar aayi as a person. I think usne ye hi sikhaya hai ki just be in the present,” he added.
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Bhuvneshwar Kumar credited his performances in the last two IPL seasons for helping him prepare for another opportunity with Team India. He explained that although he had no personal expectations regarding his performances, he continued to work on his fitness, skills and mental preparation. The pacer also expressed satisfaction at winning two consecutive IPL titles, admitting that he had not anticipated such a successful outcome when he entered those seasons.
“I think the last 2 IPL seasons aise the jab mai IPL mei gaya toh zero expectations the, mujhe khud se bhi zero expectations the, but aisa nahi tha ki maine preparation nahi kari. Maine puri preparation kari, jo bhi cheez chahiye prepare karne ke liye — from fitness to skills, mental aspect, vo sab maine kiya,” he said.
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Bhuvneshwar added that his priority was always to contribute to his team rather than predict individual results. Reflecting on his time away from international cricket, Bhuvneshwar revealed that he never actively chased a return to the Indian team during the four-year period.
“I think 4 saal I never chased this Indian jersey, toh vo 4 saal kab nikle mujhe pata bhi nahi chala. I have evolved big time, and mujhe lagta hai IPL ka bahut bada role hai usme,” he added. With his international comeback now complete, Bhuvneshwar will look to use his experience and improved maturity to make a stronger impact in the remaining T20Is against New Zealand.
