Bhuvneshwar Kumar has described his return to the national team after a four-year absence as a dream fulfilled; however, he never chased it. He calmly worked instead of overthinking and making it difficult for him to make his return. The veteran Indian pacer insisted that the long wait never felt burdensome because he never actively chased a recall.
How Bhuvneshwar Kumar didn't chase India comeback despite being out for four years: ‘It never crossed my mind'
Speaking after India’s 3-0 series-clinching victory in the third T20I against New Zealand in Wellington on Tuesday, the 36-year-old, in a press conference, said:
“It was always a dream and I’m happy to return.”
Kumar added:
“But I never chased it, so sitting out for four years didn’t feel difficult because I was taking it one tournament at a time and focusing on challenges related to cricket and fitness.”
The India pacer further added:
“It never crossed my mind that I had to play to make a comeback. That thought process simplified things, and all credit goes to the last two IPL seasons because of which I’m here.”
Kumar last represented India in November 2022, and it has been four years now. His selection for the five-match T20I series in New Zealand came on the back of outstanding performances in the Indian Premier League. Playing for Royal Challengers Bengaluru, he claimed 17 wickets in the 2025 season and a career-best 28 in 2026, playing a key role in the franchise’s consecutive title triumphs. He had earlier been named as cover for an injured Arshdeep Singh during the fifth T20I against West Indies earlier this year, though rain prevented him from bowling.
The player admitted he is proud to wear the India jersey again but has kept his ambitions grounded. He continued by saying:
“To tell you the truth, I did not chase [an India comeback]. Yes, it is a dream. I am very happy. To play for India, to represent India, it is a matter of pride.”
Kumar’s return has not been without challenges. In the three matches so far, Kumar has struggled for rhythm in batting-friendly New Zealand conditions, taking just one wicket while conceding runs at an economy rate of over 11. The figures have prompted debate among observers about the timing of his recall and whether he should feature in longer-term plans, including the 2027 ODI World Cup. Kumar has steered clear of such discussions, preferring to savour the present. He also praised teammate Abhishek Sharma’s explosive batting, which helped India seal the series early.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar eyes domestic cricket
Looking ahead, the Uttar Pradesh pacer plans to return to domestic cricket immediately after the New Zealand series concludes. He intends to feature in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and the Vijay Hazare Trophy before reassessing his prospects. Meanwhile, Kumar has also revealed that he is “happy” with the opportunities he is getting for now and is “not thinking too far ahead.”
Kumar’s calm approach and continued productivity in the IPL have revived his international career at an age when many fast bowlers wind down. Whether the comeback extends beyond this series remains to be seen, but for now the experienced campaigner is content simply to be back where he always dreamed of being representing India.
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