Experience and consistent performances in the IPL have helped Bhuvneshwar Kumar earn another opportunity to represent India in T20 internationals after nearly four years. The Indian team batting coach Sitanshu Kotak believes the veteran pacer’s impressive performances over the last two IPL seasons along with his experience played an important role in his return.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar last represented India during the November 2022 series against New Zealand. He has now returned to the national T20I setup following two outstanding seasons with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) where he played a key role in the franchise’s consecutive IPL title wins in 2025 and 2026. The experienced fast bowler claimed 45 wickets across the two seasons, taking 17 wickets in 2025 and 28 in 2026.
Speaking at the pre-match press conference ahead of India’s second T20I against the West Indies in Ranchi on Friday, Sitanshu Kotak explained why experience could have been an important factor behind Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s selection.
Sitanshu Kotak pointed out that during India’s tour of England, the absence of Jasprit Bumrah and the presence of several young bowlers highlighted the importance of having experienced players in the squad. While the younger bowlers have been performing well and earning selection, he believes experience remains valuable in certain situations.
The batting coach also highlighted Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s consistent performances in the IPL over the past two seasons as another possible reason for his comeback. However, he clarified that the final decision rests with the selectors.
Sitanshu Kotak was also asked about the possibility of veteran fast bowler Mohammed Shami returning to the Indian team. The former Indian cricketer avoided making predictions, explaining that selection decisions were not within his authority. He said that Shami has been playing and performing well, adding that any player could be considered for selection if the selectors were satisfied with their performances and the team had a requirement for them. Mohammed Shami’s possible return will therefore depend on the selectors’ assessment of his form and the team’s needs.
Another topic raised during the press conference was the reported move to involve VVS Laxman in selection meetings and in communicating injury-related updates between the team management and the selectors.
Sitanshu Kotak said he was not aware of the development until journalists brought it up during the press conference. He added that if Laxman was assigned the responsibility of communicating injury updates, he believed the BCCI would have a specific purpose behind the decision.
With team India preparing for the second T20I against the West Indies in Ranchi, Bhuvneshwar’s return adds valuable experience to the bowling attack. His recent IPL performances have strengthened his case for selection, while the future of other experienced bowlers, including Mohammed Shami, remains a matter for the selectors to decide.
Monty Paneshar Makes Big Prediction On Virat Kohli’s Retirement After 2027 ODI World Cup
R Ashwin Makes Big Statement About Md. Shami After Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s India Return
Harmanpreet Kaur Steps Down, Smriti Mandhana’s Emotional Message Wins Hearts
Is Ravindra Jadeja Targeting Ajit Agarkar With His 3-Word Cryptic Reply To BCCI’s Post?
