Murali Kartik Backs Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s India T20I Comeback

Former India spinner Murali Kartik has welcomed Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s return to the national T20I setup, insisting that age should not determine selection if a player remains effective and contributes on the field.

Bhuvneshwar was recalled for India’s five-match T20I series against New Zealand beginning October 22. He also featured in the rain-abandoned fifth T20I against the West Indies in Bengaluru after initially joining the squad as cover for Arshdeep Singh. The experienced pacer enjoyed an impressive IPL 2025 and 2026 with Royal Challengers Bengaluru.

Kartik acknowledged that Bhuvneshwar would face intense scrutiny during his comeback, with his performances potentially influencing future selection decisions involving older players. He also stressed the importance of fitness for spinner Varun Chakaravarthy ahead of the New Zealand series.

Kartik expects spinners to play a significant role despite New Zealand’s relatively small grounds, citing their effectiveness in controlling runs in T20 cricket.

He also backed all-rounder Naman Dhir’s finishing ability and bowling contributions, while describing teenage opener Vaibhav Sooryavanshi as an exciting talent who must patiently await his opportunity.