Bhuvneshwar Kumar is set to make his return to India’s T20I setup after nearly four years away from international cricket. The experienced pacer has been recalled for the upcoming five-match T20I series against New Zealand, with the first game scheduled later this month. Bhuvneshwar last played a T20I for India against New Zealand in November 2022.

His comeback follows an impressive IPL 2026 campaign with Royal Challengers Bengaluru, where he picked up 28 wickets at an economy rate of 7.95. He finished the tournament as the second-highest wicket-taker and played an important role as RCB successfully defended their title.

Former India wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik welcomed the selectors’ decision and praised Bhuvneshwar’s skill set. Karthik believes the pacer still has plenty to offer, particularly because of his ability to contribute in different phases of a T20 innings.

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“It’s taken four years to pick him back in that Indian team. Firstly, well done, selectors, to have the courage to pick someone,” Dinesh Karthik said, as quoted by India Today.

Karthik also highlighted Bhuvneshwar’s versatility with the ball, pointing out his ability to swing the new ball in both directions while remaining reliable during the death overs. “If you actually look purely on skill, Bhuvi has been exceptional. The quality that he brings is brilliant. He can bowl with a new ball, swing it both ways, and then at the death, he can handle pressure,” he added.

The former India player also hopes Bhuvneshwar can enjoy the remainder of his international career after earning his recall through performances.

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Bhuvneshwar has represented India in 87 T20Is, taking 90 wickets at an average of 23.10 and an economy rate of 6.96. His experience could prove valuable alongside Arshdeep Singh, Prince Yadav and Mayank Yadav.

India also have seam-bowling all-rounders Nitish Kumar Reddy and Shivam Dube in the squad, giving the team additional options with the ball. After waiting almost four years for another opportunity, Bhuvneshwar will now have the chance to show that his IPL form can translate into another successful international comeback.