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Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin believes Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s return to the national team is the result of hard work and consistent performances rather than a comeback the experienced pacer actively pursued.
Bhuvneshwar has been recalled to India’s T20I squad for the upcoming five-match series against New Zealand after impressive performances for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the Indian Premier League. His return marks a significant moment after an extended absence from international cricket.
Ashwin believes the 36-year-old’s approach to his game offers an important lesson: concentrate on the work in front of you rather than becoming fixated on the rewards.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin suggested that Bhuvneshwar may not have been preoccupied with the prospect of returning to India while continuing to perform at franchise level.
Ashwin explained that the fast bowler focused on delivering for RCB, particularly with the new ball, and allowed the results of that work to speak for themselves.
The former India spinner described the recall as the reward for Bhuvneshwar’s success rather than an outcome he had constantly pursued.
His comments highlight a familiar principle in professional sport: sustained performance and attention to daily responsibilities can create opportunities even when the next selection is uncertain.
Bhuvneshwar’s recall for the New Zealand T20I series follows several strong IPL campaigns with RCB. The right-arm swing bowler has remained an effective option with the new ball and has continued to contribute during different phases of T20 matches.
His international absence had lasted nearly four years, making the selection a notable development for Indian cricket.
Bhuvneshwar’s experience, control and ability to generate movement have been important parts of his game throughout his career. His return gives India another experienced pace option as the team prepares for the upcoming series.
The recall also illustrates how performances in domestic and franchise cricket can influence selection discussions, although a place in the squad does not guarantee selection in the playing XI.
Ashwin also addressed the possibility of Mohammed Shami returning to the Indian team. He indicated that a comeback depends on the individual player’s belief and willingness to work towards the opportunity.
The comments reflect a broader point about experienced international cricketers: age alone does not determine whether a player can return, but performance, preparation and the selectors’ requirements remain important factors.
Shami and Bhuvneshwar have different bowling styles and career histories, so their selection prospects should be considered individually rather than treated as identical situations.
Bhuvneshwar’s return offers a useful example of professional persistence. A player’s absence from the national team does not necessarily mean that further opportunities are impossible.
Maintaining fitness, refining skills and performing consistently at the available level can help keep a player in contention. It is equally important to recognise that selection depends on several factors, including team balance, conditions and the needs of the squad.
Ashwin’s assessment places the emphasis on the process rather than the result. Bhuvneshwar continued performing for his franchise, and his latest selection followed those efforts.
Ravichandran Ashwin believes Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s India comeback is a reward for sustained performance rather than the result of chasing selection. The veteran pacer’s return to the T20I squad for the New Zealand series follows a productive period with RCB.
For aspiring cricketers, the story offers a reminder that consistent preparation and performance can preserve opportunities even during extended periods outside the national team.
The Indian Express — “Ashwin on Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s India comeback: ‘Never looked for the fruit’.” Published October 13, 2026.
https://indianexpress.com/article/sports/cricket/ashwin-bhuvneshwar-kumar-india-comeback-never-looked-for-fruit-10919374/
Primary source for Ashwin’s comments, Bhuvneshwar’s recall and the discussion of Mohammed Shami.
The Indian Express — “‘Hard work has paid off’: Suresh Raina on Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s India comeback.” Published October 11, 2026.
https://indianexpress.com/article/sports/cricket/suresh-raina-bhuvneshwar-kumar-india-comeback-10916724/
Provides additional context on Bhuvneshwar’s IPL performances and return to the India squad.
The Times of India — “‘You can’t beat experience’: Batting coach Sitanshu Kotak explains Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s India recall.” Published October 8, 2026.
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/cricket/news/you-cant-beat-experience-batting-coach-sitanshu-kotak-explains-bhuvneshwar-kumars-india-recall/articleshow/134791447.cms
Provides further context on the value of Bhuvneshwar’s experience and his selection for the New Zealand series.
