“Can’t beat experience”- Sitanshu Kotak reveals the real reason behind the inclusion of Bhuvneshwar Kumar

Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s strong form in the last two seasons of the Indian Premier League (IPL) for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) has seen him return to the Indian squad for the upcoming T20Is against New Zealand, as their batting coach, Sitanshu Kotak, has revealed the real reason behind the pacer’s inclusion. 

Bhuvneshwar ended the IPL 2026 with 28 wickets in 16 innings at an average of 17.89 and a fine economy rate of under eight, besides having a superb strike rate of 13.50, thanks to the best bowling figures of 4/23 in an innings.

What did Sitanshu Kotak say about Bhuvneshwar Kumar's recall?

Kotak revealed that the experience of Bhuvneshwar, picking 90 wickets from 87 T20Is, will be incredibly vital for the Indian side. Kotak also shed light on his consistent performance with the ball for the RCB side.

“In England, I also personally felt that with Bumrah not being around and all the new bowlers, like young bowlers, were playing. We all know that you can't beat experience. They are also performing well and getting selected, but at some stage you also need some experience. I am just thinking that might be one reason.” Kotak revealed in the pre-match press conference before the Ranchi T20I.

See Also: Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Krunal Pandya set to represent India at Hong Kong Sixes 2026 — Full squad revealed

“Another thing is Bhuvaneshwar has been doing really well in IPL for the last two seasons. So, the selectors must have thought that for New Zealand conditions and all. And obviously, he has been doing well, and we need some experience.” The Indian batting coach addressed.

India get ready for the 2nd T20I vs West Indies in Ranchi

India started the series with a fine victory by eight wickets during the opening game in Lucknow as they try to get a 2-0 lead after the second clash at the JSCA International Cricket Complex in Ranchi. Kotak also said that they have been trying their bench strength in this series in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah, who has been rested.

“In some games, we are not playing Bumrah, giving him rest. In some games, some other senior players are also not playing. So, obviously, any team in the world will require bench strength, and somewhere and somewhere you have to give them chances.” Kotak informed.

See Also: Bhuvneshwar Kumar returns! BCCI announces India T20I and India A squads for New Zealand tour

“So, sometimes results do suffer, but normally I think we have enough strong bench strength that our results also don't suffer as much.” India’s batting coach concluded.