India batting coach reveals reason behind Bhuvneshwar Kumar's comeback for IND vs NZ T20I series

Bhuvneshwar Kumar has performed brilliantly in the last two IPL seasons.

India are preparing for their upcoming five-match T20I series against New Zealand, which will begin on October 22. This series will be a crucial part of India’s preparations, as they look to build the T20I squad with a blend of experienced and young players.

In recent months, the Men in Blue have given chances to several young players. At the same time, the selectors have also started looking at experienced players who can add more balance to the side.

The veteran pacer has been picked for the T20I series after nearly four years away from international cricket. Bhuvneshwar last played for India in 2022.

Since then, he has continued to perform in domestic cricket and the IPL, with his recent performances for Royal Challengers Bengaluru helping him earn another chance with the national team.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s experience helped him earn a recall

Now, India’s batting coach Sitanshu Kotak has explained why Bhuvneshwar Kumar was brought back into the T20I team.

According to Kotak, the 36-year-old pacer’s experience was an important factor. He emphasised the need for experienced bowlers.

“In England, I personally felt that with Bumrah not being around and a lot of young bowlers playing, you can’t beat experience.”

Kotak added that the young bowlers have been performing well, but India still need experienced players at certain stages.

Bhuvneshwar’s recent IPL record also worked in his favour. He played a key role in RCB’s back-to-back IPL title wins in 2025 and 2026. He took 45 wickets across the two seasons, including 28 wickets in the 2026 campaign.

Kotak also said that conditions in New Zealand likely played a role in the selectors’ decision. With the new ball, Kumar has extensive experience and has been one of India’s premier swing bowlers over the past few years. His ability to use the conditions could be useful during the five-match series.

“Another thing is that Bhuvneshwar has been doing really well in the IPL for the last two seasons. So the selectors must have thought that, for New Zealand conditions and all, obviously he has been doing well and we need some experience,” Kotak said.

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