Bhuvneshwar Returns as India Begin New Zealand T20I Series

India’s five-match T20I series against New Zealand begins in Christchurch on October 21, with Bhuvneshwar Kumar back in the squad after nearly four years away from the format. Captains and former players say early-season conditions could offer movement for fast bowlers, though how the pitches will play remains uncertain. India captain Shreyas Iyer said Bhuvneshwar’s experience would strengthen a bowling group that had lacked it. The 36-year-old was selected after strong performances for Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the Indian Premier League, where he took 45 wickets across the 2025 and 2026 seasons, according to reported figures. His scheduled return in a recent T20I against West Indies was abandoned because of rain. Iyer said the team would need to assess the surfaces and adapt. He noted that New Zealand’s familiarity with its different pitches could be an advantage for the hosts, while saying the conditions would become clearer after India had a chance to practise and play. New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner said Bhuvneshwar could benefit if the pitches offered movement, particularly with the new ball. Santner also cautioned that conditions could shift with the weather...