Bhuvneshwar Kumar 'Absolutely ready' for India recall while playing in UP T20 League

Bhuvneshwar Kumar said on Sunday he would be "Absolutely ready" to return to the Indian team for the 2027 ODI World Cup if the selectors gave him the opportunity, while representing Lucknow Falcons in the Uttar Pradesh T20 League. The veteran pacer expressed willingness to accept a call from the national selectors.

Kumar, 36, has not played for India since November 2022; his last international appearance came in the third T20I against New Zealand in Napier on November 22, 2022. He has remained active in domestic and franchise cricket, and his performances in the IPL have kept his name in the conversation despite the long absence from the national setup. Kumar enjoyed a strong IPL 2026 campaign with Royal Challengers Bengaluru, contributing to their title-winning season. His ability to swing the new ball and his experience in handling pressure situations remain among his biggest strengths.

In IPL 2026 Kumar claimed 28 wickets in 16 matches, maintaining an economy rate of 7.95 and producing several crucial performances throughout the tournament. Those figures formed a central part of his campaign with Royal Challengers Bengaluru.

While appearing for Lucknow Falcons in the Uttar Pradesh T20 League, Kumar said his immediate focus is on playing competitive cricket and performing for his team. He emphasised that the purpose of his participation in the UP T20 League is to play, not to chase selection.

“Honestly, I cannot say exactly how ready I am. My job is to play cricket and that is why I have come here to play in the UP T20 league. I didn’t come here with the intention of moving to another place or reaching another level,” Kumar said.

“We play IPL knowing we have to perform and win matches for the team, but I didn’t come here to the UP T20 league hoping to get picked elsewhere or because someone said something. How prepared I am is not for me to decide; the rest is the selectors’ call,” he said.

For now, Kumar will remain focused on his performances in the UP T20 League and domestic cricket. If he can continue to deliver with the ball, his experience and recent IPL form could keep him in contention for an India comeback ahead of the 2027 World Cup.