India have struggled to contain opposition batters with their bowling, and Shreyas Iyer believes Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s return could help solve the problem. The experienced fast bowler has returned to India’s T20I squad after an absence of nearly four years, with the team hoping his experience will strengthen the attack against New Zealand.
Speaking at a pre-match press conference ahead of Thursday’s series opener in Christchurch, Iyer acknowledged that India had lacked experienced bowlers, particularly after the IPL, when several new players joined the bowling unit.
Iyer said Bhuvneshwar brings considerable experience to the side, something India had been missing following the introduction of several inexperienced bowlers after the IPL.
The India captain also highlighted Bhuvneshwar’s recent success with Royal Challengers Bengaluru, who secured consecutive IPL titles in 2025 and 2026. He noted that the pacer’s achievements in the tournament demonstrated his understanding of how to succeed in the T20 format.
The 36-year-old claimed 45 wickets across those two IPL seasons, including 28 in 2026. His performances have helped him earn an international recall on merit rather than reputation alone.
India’s bowling struggles come into focus
India’s recent T20I series against the West Indies highlighted the challenges facing their bowling attack. The visitors posted totals of 171, 252, 209 and 247 in the four completed matches, scoring a combined 879 runs across those innings.
The series also raised concerns about the depth of India’s bowling resources. Former spinner Ravichandran Ashwin questioned the quality of the available options, while bowling coach Morne Morkel discussed the mental fatigue that can result from a demanding schedule.
Bhuvneshwar was included in India’s playing XI for the fifth T20I after Arshdeep Singh suffered a shoulder injury. However, persistent rain interrupted proceedings, and the deciding match was eventually abandoned, preventing the veteran pacer from making his return to international cricket on the field.
Why Bhuvneshwar’s return matters
Bhuvneshwar last represented India in a T20I in November 2022. His selection for the New Zealand series followed Jasprit Bumrah’s decision to rest, leaving India to depend on a younger pace attack alongside Arshdeep Singh.
Bhuvneshwar’s ability to generate swing with the new ball and execute his plans during the death overs offers India a valuable combination of skill and experience.
His recall is more than recognition of his past achievements. Following two impressive IPL campaigns, the veteran pacer has another opportunity to prove his worth at the international level. India, meanwhile, will be keen to assess whether his experience can bring greater control and consistency to a bowling attack that has recently struggled to contain opposition batters.
