Concerns Mount Over Bhuvneshwar Kumar's Performance in T20 Series

Former cricketer Aakash Chopra has expressed serious concerns regarding Bhuvneshwar Kumar's performance in the ongoing T20 series. After being recalled to the national team, Bhuvneshwar's costly outings have led to questions about his form and future role. With Mayank Yadav stepping in and making an immediate impact, the team management's decisions are under scrutiny. Bhuvneshwar's struggles, including a high economy rate and limited wickets, have raised doubts among fans and analysts alike. Will he be able to turn things around?

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 31, 2026, 14:34 IST

Worries Surrounding Bhuvneshwar Kumar's Comeback

Aakash Chopra, a former Indian cricketer, has voiced his concerns regarding Bhuvneshwar Kumar's return to the national team. He highlighted that the fast bowler's costly performances in his initial three matches have raised doubts about his current form. Additionally, Bhuvneshwar's exclusion from the playing XI in the fourth T20I against New Zealand has intensified the speculation about his future role in the team.

In the fourth T20I, India opted for a few changes in their lineup, bringing in Mayank Yadav to replace Bhuvneshwar Kumar. Mayank made a significant contribution by taking three wickets during the match. Bhuvneshwar had been recalled to the squad due to his strong performances with Royal Challengers Bengaluru, but his return has not met expectations, facing challenges from both the playing conditions and opposing batsmen. He has only claimed one wicket in his first three matches while allowing runs at an alarming economy rate exceeding 10 runs per over.

Chopra Critiques Team Management's Decisions

Chopra expressed his thoughts on the Indian team's strategy, stating, "Prasidh Krishna is sidelined from the ODI squad due to injury, yet Bhuvneshwar has not been included in the one-day team either. After three matches with high run leakage, doubts about his return are growing. His absence from the playing XI only adds to the uncertainty surrounding his comeback," he remarked on his YouTube channel.

"It appears that the Indian management is signaling that they have reached their limit. This comeback is not unfolding as Indian fans had anticipated, indicating a potential pause in his return to form," Chopra further elaborated.

Bhuvneshwar's Challenges in the Ongoing Series

After nearly a four-year hiatus, Bhuvneshwar has found it difficult to make a significant impact in the current five-match series. The 36-year-old has given away 139 runs in just 12 overs across his first three matches, managing to secure only one wicket with a high economy rate of 11.58.