India’s former bowling coach Bharat Arun has shed light on Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s comeback for the T20I series against New Zealand. Arun reckons Kumar should be judged by his performances upon his return to International action.
Kumar was added to India’s T20I squad for the series against New Zealand last Tuesday.
The veteran seamer bagged 28 wickets in 16 matches of IPL 2026 and had played an instrumental role in taking Royal Challengers Bengaluru to glory. The swing master has performed consistently in the recent past and also scalped 14 wickets in 11 matches while leading Lucknow Falcons in UP T20 League 2026.
“As far as Bhuvneshwar Kumar goes, I wouldn’t be thinking too far ahead. Yes, he’s been picked on form. He’s a fantastic bowler, as everybody knows. Everyone knows what he’s capable of. And it’s how he fares right now that’s really going to matter,” Bharat Arun said in a select media interaction organised by Sony Sports Network.
“The case of Bhuvneshwar Kumar is not his ability, it is how fit he is going to be to play continuously over the next one and a half years to be eligible for the World Cup. But right now, I would look at only things under my nose. New Zealand Tour is the biggest test, and I’d look at it, and before I decide on what we’re going to do with the rest,” he added.
Arun, who played a key role in the rise of India’s fast bowling quality during his stint with the team, said Bhuvneshwar is good enough to deliver the goods and he can be handy in bowling-friendly conditions in South Africa for the ODI World Cup 2027.
“Long term is how long are you looking at? You’re looking at a year and a half. If you ask me, yes, Bhuvneshwar is fit enough to be playing for the next couple of years. And as he’s shown, his form and also his ability to move the ball are fabulous. Also, the experience would come into play a long, long way in Bhuvneshwar doing well,” Bharat Arun opined.
“Even in South Africa, the conditions are quite favorable for somebody like Bhuvneshwar Kumar. And if you ask me, yes. His recent form and the way he’s bowling, he’s worked his way into the team. I’m not looking too far ahead; at least for the next one to one and a half years, Bhuvneshwar is still good enough for me,” he concluded.
Kumar will be in action in the upcoming five-match T20I series against New Zealand.
