Bhuvneshwar Kumar likely to return vs NZ T20Is: Reports

The Indian cricket team is set to tour New Zealand for a five-match T20I series, followed by three ODIs and two Test matches. Ahead of the tour, the BCCI held a selection meeting, and according to reports, veteran pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar is likely to make a comeback to India’s T20I squad.

According to reports, Bhuvneshwar could return to the national setup for the upcoming New Zealand tour. The experienced pacer remains a valuable option in T20 cricket because of his ability to swing the ball and bowl effectively during the powerplay. His experience could strengthen India’s bowling attack in the series.

As per reports from several Indian media outlets, the BCCI held a meeting on Tuesday at the ACA Stadium in Guwahati. All the selectors, interim head of the selection committee Pragyan Ojha and BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia were present at the meeting. They discussed the possible announcement of the T20I squad, along with the India A squad that is set to travel to New Zealand later this month.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar set for India T20I return ahead of New Zealand tour

According to a report by The Indian Express journalist Devendra Pandey, Bhuvneshwar Kumar is set to make a comeback to India’s T20I squad for the upcoming series against New Zealand. His return could be welcome news for Indian fans and former cricketers who have been keen to see the experienced pacer back in the national team.

Bhuvneshwar has been performing well in T20 cricket and the IPL in recent times. His consistent performances and experience have led several former cricketers to call for his return to India’s T20I side. The veteran pacer could add valuable experience and strengthen India’s bowling attack.

However, Bhuvneshwar was not in contention for selection during Ajit Agarkar’s tenure as India’s chief selector. With Agarkar’s tenure now over, the experienced pacer is once again reportedly in contention for a place in the national squad.

Why selectors are eyeing Bhuvneshwar Kumar and what the reports say

Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s recent T20 numbers are one reason he could be back in contention for India. In IPL 2026, he played 16 matches and took 28 wickets at an average of 17.89 and an economy rate of 7.95. His best figures were 4/23. These numbers underline his effectiveness with the ball and make a strong case for his return to the T20I setup.

The veteran pacer has also built an impressive international record, with 90 wickets in 87 T20Is. His ability to swing the new ball, bowl accurately in the powerplay and use his experience in pressure situations could make him a useful option for India. His recent IPL form has further strengthened the argument for considering him again.

According to reports, Bhuvneshwar is likely to be picked for India’s T20I squad for the upcoming New Zealand tour. He is also set to lead India in the Hong Kong Sixes, a fast-paced six-a-side tournament that requires players to adapt quickly. The captaincy role will give Bhuvneshwar another opportunity to showcase his experience and leadership in the shortest format.

What Bhuvneshwar's comeback means for India's bowling attack

Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s potential return could give India valuable experience and a proven new-ball option in the T20I setup. His ability to swing the ball and bowl accurately during the powerplay has made him one of India’s most reliable white-ball bowlers over the years. His 28 wickets in 16 IPL 2026 matches further highlight his recent form.

Bhuvneshwar also has a strong record against New Zealand, the team India are set to face in the upcoming T20I series. Between 2017 and 2022, he played 11 T20Is against New Zealand and took nine wickets in 11 innings. He conceded 305 runs from 38 overs, with best figures of 2/24. His experience against the Black Caps could make his potential comeback particularly useful for India.

If selected for the New Zealand series, Bhuvneshwar could provide India with another experienced bowling option while also helping guide the younger players in the attack. His recent IPL form and familiarity with New Zealand’s batters could give the team an added advantage as it looks to build a balanced T20I bowling unit.