Bhuvneshwar Kumar Breaks Silence on India Comeback

Bhuvneshwar Kumar Breaks Silence on India Comeback: A Veteran Pacer's Perspective

Bhuvneshwar Kumar, the seasoned Indian pacer known for his masterful swing bowling, has been out of the national squad for nearly three years, a prolonged absence that has left many fans and pundits questioning his future. The 35-year-old, who was once a vital cog in India’s pace attack, recently addressed the continuous speculation surrounding his comeback, offering a candid and pragmatic view on his situation. His statements, made during an interview with a prominent daily, have shed light on his mindset, his current focus, and the factors he believes are at play in his exclusion from the team.

The Long Hiatus and a Candid Confession

Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s last appearance in an Indian jersey was in the T20 World Cup 2022 semi-final against England in Adelaide. The match, which India lost by a devastating 10-wicket margin, was a turning point for several players, but for Kumar, it marked the end of his run with the national side. Despite a career that boasts 141 wickets in 121 ODIs, 90 wickets in 87 T20Is, and 63 wickets in 21 Tests, he has since been consistently overlooked by the selectors across all formats.

When asked directly about his potential return to the team, Bhuvneshwar’s response was straightforward and without pretense. He stated, “Aapko iska uttar chayanakarta denge (Only the selectors can answer that).” This simple yet profound statement encapsulated his current position: while he remains hopeful, the final decision lies entirely outside his control. He acknowledged that his role is to perform on the field, a duty he believes he is fulfilling with "100 percent" commitment.

Stellar Domestic and IPL Performances

Despite his international snub, Bhuvneshwar Kumar's performance in domestic and franchise cricket has been nothing short of impressive. After being released by Sunrisers Hyderabad, he was picked up by Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the IPL 2025 mega auction for a significant sum. He proved his worth instantly, playing a key role in RCB's historic maiden IPL title victory. In that season, he bagged 17 wickets in 14 matches, showcasing his ability to take crucial wickets and maintain a tight economy, especially in the challenging powerplay and death overs. His form in the IPL served as a stark reminder of the talent he still possesses.

Beyond the IPL, Bhuvneshwar has continued to perform. He is currently leading the Lucknow Falcons in the UP T20 League, where he has been a consistent performer with the ball, guiding his team to the playoffs. His performances in these tournaments highlight that fitness and form are not the reasons for his non-selection.

The Unspoken Factors: Luck and Selection

Bhuvneshwar's comments hinted at a deeper frustration with the selection process. He spoke about the unpredictable nature of cricket and the role of "luck." He said, "As a disciplined bowler, my focus remains on fitness and line-length. No matter how well you perform, sometimes luck doesn't favour you." This statement, widely interpreted as a subtle critique of the selection committee, suggests that factors beyond sheer performance might be influencing decisions.

He emphasized the paramount importance of consistent performance, noting, "If someone plays good cricket consistently, they cannot be ignored for long." This perspective underscores his belief that merit should ultimately prevail, regardless of external circumstances.

Retirement Not on the Cards

Amidst the speculation about his future, many have wondered if Bhuvneshwar Kumar is contemplating retirement. He was quick to put those rumors to rest. He stated unequivocally that he is enjoying his bowling and has not given any thought to retirement. "As long as I am fit, I will keep playing," he asserted, a clear declaration of his passion and determination to continue his cricketing journey.

His immediate focus remains on domestic cricket, including the upcoming Mushtaq Ali and Ranji Trophy tournaments, where he aims to continue giving his best for Uttar Pradesh. For a player who has already etched his name in history by becoming the first Indian fast bowler to reach 300 wickets in T20 cricket, the hunger to perform and represent his state remains strong.

Conclusion

Bhuvneshwar Kumar's silence on his India comeback is officially broken, but the message is clear: he is focused on what he can control—his performance, fitness, and dedication. He has left the ball squarely in the court of the selectors. While fans continue to hope for his return, the veteran pacer is content with his current journey, proving his class with every performance in domestic and franchise cricket. The question remains: will his consistent performances be enough to change the minds of the selectors, or will one of India’s most skilled swing bowlers be left to finish his career on the domestic circuit?