'I'd be happy to play for India again' - Bhuvneshwar Kumar eyes national comeback

Bhuvneshwar Kumar: Still Wanting the India Call-Up

The 36-year-old pacer has thrown open the door to a national comeback. Bhuvneshwar Kumar, currently with RCB, says he's happy to wear the India jersey again—even though he's outside the current selection picture.

Not doing it to prove a point. "I'm not playing to prove anything, but I'd be happy to play for India again," he said on Jatin Sapru's channel. Mature mindset, calm acceptance.

Last played for India back in November 2022 (T20I vs NZ in Napier), right after our T20 WC semifinal crash. Since then, it's been all domestic and franchise cricket.

And honestly? His IPL numbers don't lie. 17 wickets for RCB in IPL 2025 (title win), then 28 wickets at 17.89 avg in IPL 2026—just fell short of a record third Purple Cap. Still injecting value with the ball.

Here's the interesting bit. He told the selectors' call came in, and based on the conversation, he expected a recall within the next two series. Didn't happen. "It wasn't hurtful... I made peace with it. Family played a big role." Class act handling the rejection.

229 international matches, 294 wickets at 29.50 avg, 7 five-wicket hauls. The record's still there for whoever's deciding.

My take? When India's death-bowling situation gets scrutinised again, this name will come up in every room. He's keeping his fitness sharp. All he needs is one phone call.

Source: Crictracker