New Delhi: India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak has explained the factors behind Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s return to the national T20I team after a four year absence, highlighting the fast bowler’s consistent performances in the Indian Premier League and his international experience.
Bhuvneshwar last represented India during the T20I series against New Zealand in November 2022. His impressive performances for Royal Challengers Bengaluru over the past two IPL seasons have strengthened his case for a national comeback.
The experienced pacer claimed 45 wickets across the 2025 and 2026 IPL seasons, taking 17 wickets in 2025 and 28 in 2026. His contributions played an important role in Bengaluru’s successive IPL title winning campaigns.
Kotak pointed to the importance of experience, particularly when India have to manage bowling responsibilities without key senior players. He noted that while younger bowlers have performed well and earned selection, experienced campaigners can provide valuable support in demanding situations.
Bhuvneshwar’s ability to deliver consistently in the IPL over the last two seasons has also worked in his favour. His return adds another experienced option to India’s pace attack as the team continues to build its T20I combination.
Meanwhile, Kotak remained cautious when asked about the possibility of Mohammed Shami returning to the national side. He stressed that selection decisions rest with the selectors, adding that Shami has also been playing and performing well. A player’s selection ultimately depends on the team’s requirements and the assessment of the selection committee.
Another topic under discussion has been the reported involvement of former India batter VVS Laxman in selection meetings and the communication of injury updates between the team management and selectors. Kotak said he was not aware of the details and indicated that any such decision by the Board of Control for Cricket in India would have a specific purpose.
India are scheduled to face the West Indies in the second T20I in Ranchi on Friday, with Bhuvneshwar’s return adding experience and depth to the bowling options.
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