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Ajinkya Rahane believes that Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s return to the India National Cricket Team could be part of India’s plans for the ICC ODI World Cup 2027. Bhuvneshwar Kumar has earned an India comeback after almost four years, as the experienced fast bowler has been selected for the upcoming five-match T20I series against New Zealand, starting on October 22.
Bhuvneshwar has impressed with his performances in the IPL and domestic cricket for the last couple of years, which has helped him earn another chance at the highest level. Earlier, Imran Tahir predicts 2027 ICC ODI World Cup Semi-Finalists, snubs India for title.
Ajinkya Rahane praises selectors for bringing Bhuvneshwar Kumar back into Team India
With Jasprit Bumrah rested for the New Zealand T20Is and young Indian fast bowlers still gaining experience, the selectors have turned to Bhuvneshwar Kumar. And Ajinkya Rahane feels Bhuvneshwar’s experience could prove valuable, especially in New Zealand.
Ajinkya Rahane said on his YouTube channel, "Now the ball is coming better out of his hands than before. The experience that you get from him will always be useful. In a place like New Zealand, in such conditions, his experience will be very useful; it will come in handy. Well done to Bhuvi, but well done to the selectors as well.”
Bhuvneshwar Kumar in Gautam Gambhir’s ICC ODI World Cup 2027 plans?
The former Indian batter also believes that the selectors must have a clear plan behind recalling the 36-year-old seamer and may be looking at him as an option for the ICC ODI World Cup 2027 if he performs well in the upcoming T20I series against the Black Caps.
Rahane said, “Since he has been brought in the team, they must have thought of something. They must have talked about the World Cup, that if he does well now, there is a chance for him at the World Cup. I am sure Gautam Gambhir wishes that he had an experienced bowler like him.”
The Indian selectors have not yet announced their squad for the five-match ODI series in New Zealand, but discussions about Bhuvneshwar’s return to the 50-over setup have already started after T20I recall.
His last ODI appearance came in January 2022 during India’s tour of South Africa. He last played a 50-over match for Uttar Pradesh in the Vijay Hazare Trophy in 2023. Amid this, Shane Watson identifies Gautam Gambhir’s biggest problem as India struggle for consistency.
Ajinkya Rahane reacts to Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s shock India comeback
Ajinkya Rahane admitted that he did not expect Bhuvneshwar to return to the Indian team, but he was delighted when the selection news came out. Having played a lot of cricket with the pacer, India's former Test vice-captain praised his hard work and congratulated the selectors for giving Bhuvneshwar another opportunity.
He also praised the new selection committee under interim chief selector Pragyan Ojha, saying this decision could motivate other experienced players aged between 36 and 38. Rahane said, “They will still feel motivated and will believe that they can also make a comeback.”
The former India batter highlighted Bhuvneshwar’s commitment over the last three to four years. His performances in the IPL and domestic cricket have shown his determination, even after being left out of the national team. Rahane feels making a comeback at the age of 36 is not easy, and Bhuvneshwar has earned this opportunity through his continued hard work.
