Ravichandran Ashwin believes Bhuvneshwar Kumar never set out to force his way back into the Indian team. Instead, the fast bowler focused on doing his job for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the IPL, and his performances eventually earned him a recall to the T20I squad after four years.
Bhuvneshwar’s selection for India’s upcoming five-match T20I series against New Zealand has brought his return to the national side into focus. Ashwin believes the pacer’s approach played a key role in earning him another chance to represent India.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, the former India spinner said Bhuvneshwar had focused on his bowling rather than thinking about an international comeback.
“I have a feeling that Bhuvneshwar Kumar hasn’t even thought about a comeback. I think this will be his mantra for success. And when I’m watching him from afar, I have also experienced this myself, he has gone on his own journey,” Ashwin said.
“He has focused on doing well, bowling well with the new ball and performing for RCB. Whatever he could do, he did it. His recall is the reward for his success. He never chased that reward; he simply did his job and success followed,” he added.
ASHWIN ON SHAMI’S INDIA COMEBACK
Bhuvneshwar’s return has also raised questions about Mohammed Shami’s chances of making a comeback to the Indian team.
Ashwin believes the senior fast bowler can still return to the side, but said he would need to work hard and believe in his ability to make a comeback.
“It depends on the cricketer. If a player has the belief that he can return, then they have to work hard towards it,” said Ashwin, who played 106 Tests for India before retiring from international cricket in December 2024.
ASHWIN ON HIS BOND WITH BUMRAH AND KOHLI
Ashwin also spoke about his relationships with Jasprit Bumrah and Virat Kohli.
He said his bond with Bumrah was built largely on jokes and friendly banter, with the two sharing a good relationship off the field.
“My relationship with Jassi is very good. We always joke and pull each other’s legs. There isn’t much conversation between us as cricketers, so our relationship is very banter-oriented,” he said.
Ashwin also said his relationship with Kohli improved after the batter stepped down as captain and could focus on his role as a player.
ASHWIN BACKS INDIA FOR 2027 ODI WORLD CUP
Ashwin also backed India to challenge for the 2027 ODI World Cup title but warned that hosts South Africa would be a tough opponent.
He pointed to India’s strong spin options, fast-bowling attack and batting experience as reasons why the team could do well at the tournament.
“India has the ability. If Jasprit Bumrah is firing on all cylinders, he will have a good fast-bowling experience.
– Ends
