Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin believes Bhuvneshwar Kumar could find it difficult to make a comeback to the Indian team following his disappointing performance in the T20I series against New Zealand.

Bhuvneshwar earned a place in India’s squad for the five-match series after an impressive run in the last two seasons of the Indian Premier League (IPL). However, the experienced pacer failed to carry his IPL form into international cricket and struggled to make an impact with the ball.

His performance has now raised questions about his future in the Indian team, with Ashwin suggesting that the opportunity to return to the national side might have slipped away.

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‘Chapter Closed’: Ashwin On Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s India Future

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin said Bhuvneshwar did not live up to expectations in the New Zealand series. He also pointed out the difference between the pacer’s bowling in the IPL and his recent international outings.

According to Ashwin, Bhuvneshwar appeared to lack the intensity he usually brings to his bowling. He also noticed a drop in the pacer’s run-up speed and bowling pace, which raised concerns about his preparation and fitness ahead of the series.

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Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s Numbers In New Zealand T20I Series

Bhuvneshwar had a difficult time with the ball during the five-match T20I series against New Zealand. He managed to pick up just one wicket in four matches and was expensive throughout his outings.

The right-arm pacer conceded 180 runs in 16 overs at an average of 180.00. His economy rate stood at 11.25, figures that fell well short of the expectations surrounding his comeback.

His struggles were in contrast to his performances in the IPL, where he had impressed over the last two seasons and earned another opportunity in the Indian setup.

Will Mohammed Shami Get Another Opportunity?

Bhuvneshwar’s disappointing outing has also brought the discussion around India’s pace-bowling options back into focus.

India are still looking for experienced fast bowlers who can make a difference in the 50-over format. With Bhuvneshwar struggling to make the most of his opportunity, Mohammed Shami could come into the picture.

Shami’s experience and record in international cricket make him an option worth considering ahead of the ODI World Cup 2027.