Bhuvneshwar Kumar Shines in IPL 2026, Sparks India Comeback Discussions

Bhuvneshwar Kumar is having a remarkable IPL 2026 season with Royal Challengers Bengaluru, leading the purple cap race with 17 wickets. His impressive performances have sparked discussions about a potential return to the Indian national team, as former cricketer Virender Sehwag advocates for his inclusion despite concerns about age. With RCB currently in second place in the points table, Bhuvneshwar's contributions are pivotal to their success. Explore the details of his journey and the implications for his future in international cricket.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 1, 2026, 19:54 IST

Bhuvneshwar Kumar's Stellar Performance

Bhuvneshwar Kumar is making a significant impact in IPL 2026 while playing for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). The experienced pacer has taken 17 wickets across 9 matches, currently leading the purple cap race. In a season characterized by high-scoring games, Bhuvneshwar has maintained an impressive economy rate of 7.54, showcasing his vital role in RCB's achievements thus far.

His outstanding performances have caught the attention of former cricketer Virender Sehwag, who has advocated for Bhuvneshwar's return to the Indian national team. The last time Bhuvneshwar donned the Indian jersey was in 2022. Sehwag, who previously served as India's vice-captain, dismissed concerns regarding Bhuvneshwar's age, noting he is 36 years old. In a discussion on Cricbuzz, he emphasized the need for selectors to consider Bhuvneshwar's return, stating, "Bhuvneshwar Kumar appears to be the top bowler in this lineup. He has consistently taken wickets, including three in today's match, significantly contributing to RCB's success. Age should not be a barrier if he continues to deliver exceptional performances. The selectors should contemplate his inclusion in the T20 format. The combination of Bumrah and Bhuvneshwar was effective in the past; could they recreate that partnership? He excels with both new and old balls," he remarked.

Between 2012 and 2022, Bhuvneshwar participated in 21 Tests, 121 ODIs, and 87 T20Is, claiming 63 wickets in Tests, 141 in ODIs, and 90 in T20Is. His last Test appearance was in January 2018. Although he was part of the Test squad post-2018, he did not receive any opportunities, and it has been over two years since he played a red-ball match. It remains uncertain whether the selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, will reinstate the former leading pacer following his impressive IPL 2026 performances.

RCB's Position in IPL 2026

RCB in IPL 2026 points table

Bhuvneshwar's impressive three-wicket haul against Gujarat Titans (GT) was not enough to secure a win, as RCB failed to defend a target of 156 runs. Despite his efforts in dismissing GT's top three batsmen, RCB currently holds the second position in the IPL 2026 points table with 6 victories out of 9 matches. A win would have propelled them to the top spot, while GT sits in fifth place.