Bhuvneshwar Kumar
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.
And when I’m watching him from afar, I have also experienced this myself, he has gone on his own journey,” Ashwin said. 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. “I have a feeling that Bhuvneshwar Kumar hasn’t even thought about a comeback. I think this will be his mantra for success.
There is experience in batting,” he said. So India will have to play against the South African team,” he said. 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. 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. “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.