Wellington: Bhuvneshwar Kumar has revealed his next move after making his comeback to India’s T20I team, confirming that he will return to domestic cricket and play in both the Vijay Hazare Trophy and the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy.
The 36-year-old seamer spoke at the post-match press conference after India’s six-wicket win over New Zealand in the third T20I at Wellington, a match in which his return to the national side continued after nearly four years away. His last appearance for India before this comeback had come in November 2022, and he earned his recall for the fifth T20I of the recently concluded series against West Indies before being picked for the ongoing tour of New Zealand.
“It feels good to represent India. I wasn’t there for many years,” Bhuvneshwar said. “I am feeling good that I’ve got the opportunity to play for India again.”
Asked about a possible ODI comeback, with the 2027 World Cup in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia less than a year away, Bhuvneshwar refused to look that far ahead — but he was clear about the immediate plan. “I am not thinking too far ahead, like I did in the last few years. I am happy with what I am getting. Of course, I will play domestic cricket, whether it is the Vijay Hazare Trophy or the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. So I am looking forward to that,” he said.
The domestic return would end a long absence from 50-over cricket. Bhuvneshwar last played in the Vijay Hazare Trophy in December 2023, which was also his most recent List A match, and he did not take part in the tournament in either the 2024-25 or 2025-26 seasons. He was in action in the T20 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy last season, and he will turn out for Uttar Pradesh in the domestic season ahead.
Bhuvneshwar also stressed that he had not chased the comeback. “To tell you the truth, I did not chase it. Yes, it is a dream to play for India. I am very happy to play for India. It is a matter of pride,” he said, adding that he simply kept doing what was in front of him during the four years out of the side.
His last ODI for India came in January 2022 against South Africa. He was part of India’s squads at the 2019 and 2025 World Cups but was not considered for the 2023 edition at home. A strong domestic season in both white-ball formats would at least put his name back in the conversation, even if Bhuvneshwar himself insists he is only thinking about the next game in front of him.
