Bhuvneshwar Kumar recalled for New Zealand T20I series

India has recalled fast bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar for its five-match T20I series against New Zealand, reopening debate over whether the selection could lead to a return to one-day cricket before the 2027 ODI World Cup. The series is scheduled to begin October 22, 2026. The 36-year-old last played an ODI for India in January 2022. His recall is for the T20I squad, and selectors have not announced India’s squad for the New Zealand ODI series. No official plan linking the selection to the 2027 ODI World Cup has been reported. Former India batter Ajinkya Rahane said selectors may have discussed the World Cup with Bhuvneshwar and suggested a strong showing in New Zealand could give him a chance. Rahane also praised the bowler’s experience, saying it could be useful in New Zealand conditions. His comments were an interpretation of the selectors’ intentions, not a confirmation from the selection panel. Former selector Saba Karim offered a different assessment, saying he believed Bhuvneshwar had been recalled for T20 internationals, not one-day cricket.