Bhuvneshwar Kumar
Ravichandran Ashwin believes Bhuvneshwar Kumar's return to India's T20I setup is a reward for his consistency rather than the result of chasing an international comeback. The veteran pacer earned a recall to the national squad after impressing for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the IPL, with Ashwin crediting his focus on performance for his return.Bhuvneshwar's selection for India's upcoming five-match T20I series against New Zealand, beginning next week, was one of the major talking points following the squad announcement. The right-arm pacer is set to return to international T20 cricket after a gap of four years.
'He has gone on his own journey'
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin suggested that Bhuvneshwar remained focused on improving his bowling and fulfilling his responsibilities for RCB rather than worrying about a potential India recall."I have a feeling that Bhuvneshwar Kumar hasn't even thought about a comeback. I think this will be his mantra for success. And when I'm watching him from afar, I have also experienced this myself, he has gone on his own journey," Ashwin said."He has focused on doing well, bowling well with the new ball and performing for RCB. Whatever he could do, he did it. His recall is the reward for his success. He never chased that reward; he simply did his job and success followed," he added.
Ashwin backs India for , picks South Africa as serious contenders
Looking ahead to the 2027 ODI World Cup, Ashwin backed India to challenge for the title but warned that hosts South Africa could pose a significant threat in familiar conditions.Ashwin pointed to India's pace-bowling resources, spin options and batting experience as reasons to believe the team can mount a strong campaign. He particularly highlighted Bumrah's importance, suggesting that the fast bowler could make a major difference if he performs at his best."India has the ability. If Jasprit Bumrah is firing on all cylinders, he will have a good fast-bowling experience. India has a good spin stock. There, in a lot of grounds, you will get the help of spin. There is experience in batting," he said.However, Ashwin identified South Africa as one of the strongest contenders, citing home advantage, familiarity with local conditions and the experience players have gained through the SA20 league.
"I will honestly say that two-three teams look good to me. Out of them, South Africa is the best. I think South Africa will be a serious contender for the home World Cup. So India will have to play against the South African team," he said."South Africa, in South African conditions, especially after SA20, have the skills, they know all the conditions, they play good cricket and the team looks together. That's a very strong force in cricket," Ashwin added.