Kotak cites experience for Bhuvneshwar T20I recall
Bhuvneshwar Kumar returns to India's T20I side for the New Zealand series after a four-year gap. Kotak pointed to the seamer's recent IPL form and the absence of Jasprit Bumrah as key factors in the recall.
India assistant coach Sitanshu Kotak said selectors brought back Bhuvneshwar Kumar after a four-year absence because the 36-year-old offers experience the current squad lacks. Bhuvneshwar took 45 wickets in 30 IPL matches for Royal Challengers Bengaluru across the past two seasons. Kotak made the remarks at a pre-match press conference ahead of India's T20I series against New Zealand that begins on 22 October.
CricHubb Take
The recall shows selectors are willing to turn to proven IPL performers when a specialist skill set, such as swing in New Zealand conditions, is missing from the current group. It also sets a benchmark that other domestic pacers must now meet if they want a look-in.