India’s batting coach Sitanshu Kotak has revealed two reasons behind Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s comeback for New Zealand T20Is. Kotak highlighted Kumar’s impressive performance in IPL 2026 for RCB and Jasprit Bumrah’s absence as two key reasons for the fast bowler’s return.
Bhuvneshwar scalped 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.
Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Kotak said, “One thing is obviously with the selectors, but I can give you an answer based on what I think. In New Zealand, I personally felt that with Bumrah not being around and a lot of young bowlers playing, you can’t beat experience. The young bowlers are good, they are performing well and getting selected, but at some stage you also need some experience. That might be one reason.”
“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 added.
Shedding light on Mohammed Shami’s absence, Kotak said he is not a selector. Shami has been ignored by the selectors despite consistent performances in the domestic circuit.
“First of all, I am not a selector, so it is difficult for me to tell you that. But Shami is also playing and he is also doing well. If the selectors feel that he is doing well and the team has a requirement, then any player can be selected.”
Shami last played for India in the 2025 Champions Trophy.
