Bhuvneshwar Kumar says he accepted India return was not coming

Bhuvneshwar Kumar has revealed he gradually accepted that a recall to the India team was not materialising after initially believing he would return. The 36-year-old said he felt he would be back after the next two series but the opportunities never arrived. Kumar has not played for India since his last limited-overs appearance in 2022.

The pacer picked up 45 wickets across the last two IPL seasons for Royal Challengers Bengaluru. He has represented India in 21 Tests, 121 ODIs and 87 T20Is, taking 63, 141 and 90 wickets respectively. Kumar said he is not playing to prove anything to selectors but would welcome another chance.

The veteran admitted he told family members he believed the 2022 World Cup would be his last. His recent IPL form has renewed speculation about a possible comeback.