New Delhi: India's bowling attack has had a difficult time keeping opposition batters in check, and Shreyas Iyer believes Bhuvneshwar Kumar's return could help address the problem. The veteran pacer is back in the T20I set-up after nearly four years, with India hoping his experience will make a difference against New Zealand.
Speaking at the pre-match press conference ahead of the series opener in Christchurch, Iyer admitted that India had missed having experienced bowlers in the side, particularly after the Indian Premier League, when several new faces came into the attack.
Bhuvi brings a lot of experience to the team, Iyer noted, adding that the unit was lacking that element following the IPL phase. The India captain also pointed to Bhuvneshwar's success with Royal Challengers Bengaluru, who claimed consecutive IPL titles in 2025 and 2026. In T20 cricket, his career graph and recent championship victories show he has a very good understanding of how to dominate the format.
The 36-year-old secured 45 wickets across those two seasons, including 28 scalps in 2026, earning his international recall through sustained performance rather than reputation alone.
India's recent T20I series against the West Indies highlighted ongoing bowling challenges. The visitors posted heavy totals of 171, 252, 209, and 247 in the completed matches, forcing India to defend massive scores.
Those results sparked questions about the team's overall bowling depth. Former spinner Ravichandran Ashwin raised concerns regarding available options, while bowling coach Morne Morkel discussed the mental fatigue associated with a relentless international schedule.
Bhuvneshwar was previously named in India's lineup for the fifth T20I of that series after Arshdeep Singh sustained a shoulder injury, though persistent rain ultimately abandoned the fixture before he could take the field.
Bhuvneshwar last represented India in a T20I during November 2022. His selection for the upcoming New Zealand fixtures follows the decision to rest Jasprit Bumrah, leaving the squad to rely on a younger pace group alongside Arshdeep Singh. His proficiency with the swinging new ball and execution in the death overs offer a distinct tactical asset.
His recall represents more than a tribute to past accomplishments. Following productive domestic campaigns, Bhuvneshwar has an opportunity to prove his worth at the international level while giving India a chance to evaluate the impact of his veteran presence.