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Bhuvneshwar Kumar has confirmed that he will play domestic cricket, including the Vijay Hazare Trophy and the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, following his return to India's T20I setup. The India fast bowler made the announcement during the post-match press conference after India's third T20I victory against New Zealand in Wellington on October 27.
The 36-year-old's return to domestic 50-over cricket could provide an opportunity to strengthen his case for a potential ODI comeback ahead of the next World Cup.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar Struggling in T20Is Since India Comeback
Bhuvneshwar returned to India's international setup after nearly four years away, having last represented the country in November 2022. He earned a recall for the fifth T20I against the West Indies before featuring in the ongoing series against New Zealand.
However, his recent T20I numbers show that he has yet to make a significant impact with the ball. Against New Zealand, he recorded figures of 0/49 in Christchurch on October 22, followed by 1/50 in the second T20I on October 24. In the third match at Wellington, he finished with figures of 0/40.
India won all three matches, including the third T20I by six wickets after chasing New Zealand's 198-run total in just 13.2 overs. While the team's results have been encouraging, Bhuvneshwar will want to improve his individual returns as he looks to establish himself again at the international level.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar Confirms Vijay Hazare Trophy Participation
Speaking after India's win over New Zealand in the third T20I, Bhuvneshwar Kumar discussed his return to international cricket and his plans for the coming months. He expressed satisfaction at representing India again after spending several years outside the national setup.
“It feels good to represent India. I wasn't there for many years. I am feeling good that I've got the opportunity to play for India again,” he said at the post-match press conference.
When asked about the possibility of returning to India's ODI team, particularly with the next ODI World Cup approaching, Bhuvneshwar explained that he was not looking too far ahead. Instead, he intends to focus on the opportunities available to him in domestic cricket.
“I am not thinking too far ahead, like I did in the last few years. I am happy with what I am getting. Of course, I will play domestic cricket, whether it is the Vijay Hazare Trophy or the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. So I am looking forward to that,” he added.
Notably, his last appearance in the Vijay Hazare Trophy came in December 2023, which was also his most recent List A match.
Also Read: Bhuvneshwar Kumar's numbers since India comeback raise selection questions
I Did Not Chase India Comeback - Bhuvneshwar Kumar
Bhuvneshwar Kumar also explained that he did not spend the last four years actively pursuing an international recall. Instead, he focused on the tournaments, fitness challenges and cricketing opportunities that came his way.
“To tell you the truth, I did not chase it. Yes, it is a dream to play for India. I am very happy to play for India. It is a matter of pride. So I did not know what would happen in these four years. Whatever came in front of me, whether it was tournaments, challenges related to cricket, or fitness, I kept doing it,” he said.
The fast bowler also praised Abhishek Sharma for his aggressive batting during India's chase against New Zealand, highlighting the skill required to finish a T20 match so quickly.
“Credit should be given to Abhishek for the way he batted. It wasn't easy. Finishing the game in the first six overs of a T20 match takes a lot of skill, which Abhishek is demonstrating repeatedly. Credit goes to him,” Bhuvneshwar added.
