‘I don’t think about India comeback’: Bhuvneshwar Kumar opens up as return calls intensify

As calls for Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s return to the Indian team continue to grow following his impressive IPL 2026 season with Royal Challengers Bengaluru, the veteran pacer has made it clear that an international comeback is no longer something he actively thinks about.

The 36-year-old swing bowler, who has been one of RCB’s standout performers this season with 21 wickets, said he stopped setting long-term goals years ago after repeated disappointments.

Advertisement

“I don’t think about India’s comeback. It’s been many years that I’ve stopped setting long-term goals. Because whenever I’ve done that, it never worked for me,” Bhuvneshwar said in a video released by RCB on X.

With several former cricketers and experts backing him for a national recall after his consistent IPL performances, Bhuvneshwar said he is satisfied with what he has achieved in his career.

“I’m happy that there are 200 matches, there are so many wickets, there’s powerplay, there’s death. I think it’s all reward for what I’ve done over the years. There have been good years and bad years.”

He added that he currently views his achievements with calmness rather than emotion.

“Honestly, at this point of time, I don’t feel anything special. Of course, I’m lying if I say that it won’t happen in the future once I stop playing. I think these are all memories that will come in handy later. But at this point of time, I think it’s very normal for me.”

Reflecting on his cricketing journey, Bhuvneshwar credited his natural ability to swing the ball as the biggest reason behind his longevity and success.

“I think it was a natural swing. It was God-gifted. The basics are still the same, ball swing, smooth action, express pace, bounce. T20 cricket may have changed demands, but the art of fast bowling remains unchanged.”

Never known as an express pacer, Bhuvneshwar admitted that his moderate pace actually helped extend his career.

“I’ve never been an express bowler, so I never got tired. I wasn’t in a hurry because I didn’t bowl fast. Not being express was a blessing in disguise for me.”

The veteran also explained his tactical approach across different phases of a T20 innings.

“In the powerplay, I’m a swing bowler, and if the ball is moving, I go for wickets. Middle overs are completely different because the batters have a different mindset. At death, it is about confidence and execution. But no matter what phase it is, keep things simple, that’s always been my mantra.”

Bhuvneshwar further revealed that stepping away from international cricket has also helped him manage his workload better.

“Ever since I’ve stopped playing for the country, the best thing is that I get a lot of breaks after IPL. I play enough cricket to stay in touch, and I also get enough time to do other things.”