Bhuvneshwar Kumar returns to India's T20 squad after nearly four years; gets the call-up due to Arshdeep's injury.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar may not have to wait until the New Zealand tour to return to action; the experienced pacer could get an opportunity to represent India in the final match of the ongoing T20 series against the West Indies. The Indian team management has brought him back into the squad ahead of the series-deciding fifth match, following a shoulder injury sustained by left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh.

Arshdeep suffered the shoulder injury while batting during the fourth T20 match of the series in Hyderabad, casting doubt on his participation in the final game. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has stated that a final decision will be made after assessing the status of his injury ahead of the match.

In a statement, the BCCI noted, "A final decision regarding Arshdeep Singh’s participation will be taken before the match. The team management will decide based on an assessment of his recovery."

A chance to return to the national side after nearly four years

Bhuvneshwar Kumar last played an international T20 for India in November 2022, against New Zealand. Despite a long absence from the national team, the 36-year-old pacer has continued his efforts to make a comeback.

Last week, he underwent a fitness test at the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru and has since been gradually increasing his bowling workload. Most recently, in September, he participated in the UP T20 League.

His performance in the IPL proved to be his greatest asset in his bid to return to the national squad. He bowled consistently well for Royal Challengers Bengaluru, taking 28 wickets in 16 matches—making him the second-highest wicket-taker in the tournament, trailing only 'Purple Cap' winner Kagiso Rabada. This performance paved the way for his inclusion in the squad for the New Zealand series, and now, an opportunity has emerged for him to feature in the final match of the series against the West Indies. Arshdeep’s injury a cause for concern for India

Arshdeep has played in all four matches of the ongoing series, taking five wickets. His potential absence from the series-deciding match could impact India’s bowling strategy.

The Indian T20 squad is scheduled to depart for a tour of New Zealand on Sunday, with Arshdeep included in the touring party. Consequently, the team management is exercising extra caution regarding his injury status.

Beyond Arshdeep and Bhuvneshwar, the squad includes Mayank Yadav and Prince Yadav as specialist pacers, while all-rounders Nitish Kumar Reddy and Shivam Dube offer additional pace-bowling options. Should Arshdeep be unable to play, Bhuvneshwar’s experience could prove vital for India.

Challenges in player management across multiple formats

It is not just the T20 squad; selectors are also concerned about the bowling department of India’s ODI team. The team management is currently monitoring the fitness of Prasidh Krishna and Harshit Rana, both of whom are dealing with injuries.

According to a report by ESPNcricinfo, some players may be released from the squad before the conclusion of the ODI series against New Zealand, allowing them time to prepare for the upcoming two Test matches.

Maintaining player fitness and managing injuries across various formats has become a significant challenge for the Indian team. In this context, an opportunity arises to leverage Bhuvneshwar’s experience; however, his fitness levels and bowling readiness will be crucial as he looks to return to international cricket after a long hiatus.