‘Welcome Back, Bhuvi’: Raina Applauds Veteran Pacer’s India Return

Former India batter Suresh Raina has welcomed veteran pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s return to the Indian T20I squad, describing the comeback as thoroughly deserved after the fast bowler earned a recall following nearly four years away from international cricket.

Raina praised Bhuvneshwar’s discipline, hard work and resilience, saying his journey from Uttar Pradesh to the IPL and back into the Indian team was an inspiring example of perseverance.

“Welcome back, Bhuvi! So happy to see one of India’s finest and most skilful bowlers getting his recognition again,” Raina wrote on X. He added that Bhuvneshwar’s return showed how sustained hard work can eventually earn its reward.

While the ANI report referred to the 2022 T20 World Cup semi-final as his last appearance, other reports and ICC records show that Bhuvneshwar’s final international match came against New Zealand in Napier on November 22, 2022, shortly after the T20 World Cup. He has now been recalled for India’s five-match T20I series in New Zealand.

His recent IPL form played a major role in rebuilding his case. Bhuvneshwar claimed 28 wickets in IPL 2026, narrowly missing the Purple Cap, while his performances for Royal Challengers Bengaluru helped the franchise win consecutive titles. Across the last two IPL seasons, he took 45 wickets for RCB.

His return also comes at an important time for India, with Jasprit Bumrah rested for the T20I leg of the New Zealand tour. Bhuvneshwar’s experience and ability to swing the new ball could be particularly useful in New Zealand conditions.

India’s five-match T20I series begins in Christchurch on October 22, followed by matches in Christchurch, Wellington, Auckland and Hamilton through November 1. Shreyas Iyer will captain the 16-member squad, with Tilak Varma as vice-captain.