WATCH: Bhuvneshwar Kumar runs riot with fiery fifer to gun down Bengal batters after UP bundled out for 60 in Ranji Trophy encounter

India's out of favour pace maestro Bhuvneshwar Kumar is breathing fire in the Ranji Trophy 2023-2024 season. In the ongoing Ranji Trophy game at Green Park, Kanpur, between Uttar Pradesh and Bengal, Bhuvneshwar, who returned to domestic set up after seven years, ran riot with his exceptional bowling as he dazzled with a brilliant fifer to rattle Bengal batters on January 12, Friday. Bengal, after winning the toss and opting to bowl, made a strategic move that proved effective, as they dismissed Uttar Pradesh for just 60 runs, thanks to Mohammed Kaif, Mohammed Shami's younger brother, who took four wickets, and Suraj Sindhu Jaiswal, who picked an impressive three-fer. However, the highlight of the match was Uttar Pradesh's swing maestro, Bhuvneshwar. With outstanding control and accuracy, Bhuvneshwar ran through the Bengal batting line-up and removed the top five batters to leave Bengal in a precarious position at 95/5 at the end of day's play.

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Bhuvneshwar's exceptional outing, resulting in his 12th five-wicket haul in First-Class cricket, further cements his reputation as a skilled bowler. His recent success in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2023, where he claimed 16 wickets in just seven matches, is a testament to his excellent form.

Kumar's consistent rhythm and sharp focus have caught the attention of the cricket world, fueling speculation about his possible comeback to the Indian national team. His outstanding performance in the Ranji Trophy not only highlights his prowess but also sends a compelling message to the national selectors. 

Notably, Bhuvneshwar hasn't featured in India's Test team since 2018, as his last appearance in the longer format came against South Africa. India are scheduled to play a five-match Test series against England starting on January 25.

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