Sitanshu Kotak explains Bhuvneshwar Kumar recall for India vs New Zealand T20I series

India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak said on October 8, 2026 that Bhuvneshwar Kumar had been recalled to India’s squad for the five-match T20I series against New Zealand starting on October 22, and explained the reasons behind the selection.

The series forms part of India’s preparations to build a T20I squad combining experienced and younger players; selectors have recently given opportunities to several youngsters while also assessing senior options. Bhuvneshwar, who last played for India in 2022 after nearly four years away from international T20 cricket, has continued to feature in domestic competitions and the IPL, and his recent displays for Royal Challengers Bengaluru contributed to his return.

Kotak said the 36-year-old pacer’s experience was a key factor in the decision. “In England, I personally felt that with Bumrah not being around and a lot of young bowlers playing, you can’t beat experience.” He added that, despite the promising form of younger bowlers, India still require seasoned campaigners at particular stages of a match.

Bhuvneshwar’s IPL performances were highlighted by the selectors and coaching staff as influential in his recall. He played a key role in Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s back-to-back IPL title wins in 2025 and 2026, taking 45 wickets across those two seasons, including 28 wickets in the 2026 campaign.

Kotak also pointed to conditions in New Zealand and Bhuvneshwar’s skill with the new ball as considerations for selection, noting the bowler’s ability to exploit swing. “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 said.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar has now been named in India’s T20I squad for the five-match series against New Zealand that begins on October 22.