'You Can't Beat Experience': Why Bhuvneshwar Kumar Earned India Recall
India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak explains why Bhuvneshwar Kumar's experience and IPL form secured his return to the national team.
India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak has highlighted that the combination of seasoned experience and stellar Indian Premier League (IPL) form was the primary driver behind Bhuvneshwar Kumar's return to the national squad. After a hiatus lasting nearly four years, the veteran seamer has been brought back into the fold to bolster the bowling attack.
The Need for Veteran Presence
Speaking to reporters in Ranchi on the eve of India's second T20I against the West Indies, Kotak suggested that the selection committee likely identified a gap in the squad's leadership and stability. With star pacer Jasprit Bumrah unavailable and several younger bowlers being integrated during the recent tour of England, the team management sought a steady hand.
"In England, I personally felt that with Bumrah not being around and a lot of young bowlers playing, you can’t beat experience," Kotak stated. While acknowledging the potential of the younger generation, he emphasized that talent alone isn't always enough. "The young bowlers are doing well and performing consistently, which is why they are getting selected, but at some stage, you also need experience."
IPL Dominance Fuels Comeback
Beyond the tactical need for a veteran, Bhuvneshwar Kumar's recent performances in the IPL have been impossible for selectors to ignore. His resurgence has been marked by exceptional consistency, particularly during his recent stints in the franchise circuit.
Kumar's impact has been significant, notably during the 2025 and 2026 seasons with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), where his bowling helped the franchise secure back-to-back titles. His statistics from the 2026 season underscore his value:
- Wickets: 28 scalps in 16 matches
- Average: 17.89
- Economy Rate: 7.95
Kotak believes these performances, combined with his ability to adapt to varying conditions, make him a vital asset for the upcoming challenges in New Zealand. "The selectors may have felt that his experience would be useful in New Zealand conditions," the coach added.
The Road Ahead
Bhuvneshwar Kumar's international career had been on hold since the 2022 T20 World Cup semi-final against England in Adelaide. His return marks a significant milestone for the 36-year-old seamer. India's upcoming tour begins with a five-match T20I series starting October 22, followed by a five-match ODI series and two Test matches.