Bhuvneshwar Kumar has expressed his willingness to make a comeback to the Indian team and feature in the 2027 ODI World Cup, insisting he would be ready if the selectors decide to give him another opportunity.
The veteran pacer is currently representing Lucknow Falcons in the Uttar Pradesh T20 League, where his immediate focus remains on playing competitive cricket and performing for his team.
Bhuvneshwar was asked on Sunday whether he would be interested in returning to the Indian side for the World Cup.
“Why would I say no if I get a call? Absolutely ready,” Kumar said.
Bhuvneshwar 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.
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The 36-year-old has continued to remain active in domestic and franchise cricket, and his performances in the IPL have kept his name in the conversation despite his long absence from the national setup.
BHUVNESHWAR LEAVES WORLD CUP DECISION TO SELECTORS
Bhuvneshwar enjoyed a strong IPL 2026 campaign with Royal Challengers Bengaluru, playing an important role in their title-winning season. The experienced seamer claimed 28 wickets in 16 matches, maintaining an economy rate of 7.95 and producing several crucial performances throughout the tournament.
His ability to swing the new ball and his experience in handling pressure situations remain among his biggest strengths. Bhuvneshwar’s recent IPL form could therefore give the selectors something to consider, particularly with India looking to build a strong pace attack for the 2027 World Cup.
The pacer, though, stressed that he is not approaching the UP T20 League with the sole intention of forcing his way back into international cricket.
“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. Bhuvneshwar added that his level of preparedness is ultimately not for him to determine.
“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, the experienced pacer 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.
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