Former India batter Hanuma Vihari has urged the Indian team management to give Bhuvneshwar Kumar two more opportunities in the ongoing T20I series against New Zealand before making a final decision on his future. However, Vihari believes India should consider younger fast bowlers if the experienced pacer fails to improve. He also expressed concerns about Bhuvneshwar’s reduced bowling pace and questioned whether the veteran is fully match-fit.
India have already secured an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match T20I series following an impressive victory in Wellington. However, Bhuvneshwar has struggled to make an impact. The 36-year-old conceded 40 runs without taking a wicket in the third T20I, taking his overall figures to 139 runs conceded in 12 overs at an economy rate of 11.58, with just one wicket in three matches.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Hanuma Vihari admitted that he had high expectations from Bhuvneshwar, particularly after the pacer’s performances in recent Indian Premier League seasons. “I was eagerly waiting for his performance and thought he would even be considered for the World Cup too. But I think he is not match-fit yet,” Vihari said.
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The former India batter explained that a lack of regular competitive cricket could have affected Bhuvneshwar’s rhythm and match readiness. He also highlighted the drop in the bowler’s pace, despite his ability to generate swing.
“When you are 36 and not playing many matches, it will take some time to get into the groove and rhythm. The concerning thing is that his pace has come down. The swing is there, which is okay. But from the second over, he starts giving runs in every game. But you can see for two more games. If it does not work after that, you can go back to the youngsters,” he added.
Vihari also acknowledged the difference between IPL performances and international cricket, suggesting that Bhuvneshwar has yet to reproduce his domestic league form at the highest level.
Bhuvneshwar was training at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru when he received a call-up for India’s final T20I against the West Indies. However, he did not get an opportunity to bowl in that match. His selection was also viewed as a possible step towards assessing his credentials for a potential return to the ODI setup ahead of the 2027 World Cup.
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So far, the comeback has not gone according to plan. Arshdeep Singh and Prince Yadav have delivered stronger performances during the New Zealand series, increasing competition for places.
With India boasting several promising pace options, including Harshit Rana, Gurnoor Brar and Prasidh Krishna, Bhuvneshwar faces a challenging road ahead. With the next T20 World Cup still more than a year away, India have time to assess their options before making a final decision.
