Suresh Raina backs Bhuvneshwar Kumar's India return after four-year absence

Former India batter Suresh Raina praised Bhuvneshwar Kumar's recall to the national team, saying hard work always pays off. Bhuvneshwar earned his India recall for the upcoming T20I series against New Zealand on the back of consistent performances in the IPL. He helped Royal Challengers Bengaluru win consecutive titles with 48 wickets in 30 matches.

Raina said he spoke to Bhuvneshwar and met him recently. He described the 36-year-old as a busy cricketer who has shown character at his age. Bhuvneshwar last played for India nearly four years ago. His last Test was in January 2018, his last ODI in January 2022, and he was dropped from the T20I set-up by November that year.

Mohammed Shami welcomed Bhuvneshwar's selection and said everyone deserves a chance to perform after showing skill and hard work. Shami took four wickets for Bengal against Delhi on the opening day of their Ranji Trophy match at the Bengal Cricket Academy ground on October 11.