Discarded veteran Indian fast bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who is getting ready for the upcoming season of the UP T20 League, has shared his views on the hype around his international return.
Notably, there have been many reports of former Indian cricketers calling for the discarded pacer’s return to the Indian team for the forthcoming ICC ODI World Cup 2027, in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.
While acknowledging the praise, Bhuvneshwar clarified that his current focus is centered purely on competing and supporting his team. He went on to add that he would be completely ready if a call-up comes from the Indian team.
“Honestly, I can’t answer how ready I am. My job is to play cricket. That’s why I’m here playing the UP T20, not because I want to reach another level or go somewhere else. I play the IPL because I know I have to perform and help my team win, but I’m not playing here just to get picked somewhere or because someone said something,” Bhuvi told SportsTak.
“What everyone is saying is their opinion. My job is to play cricket. I haven’t come here just with the mindset that I have to excel to move ahead. As I’ve said before, I love the game; I play because I enjoy it,” he added.
“If the call comes, why would I refuse? I am absolutely ready,” he noted.
Speaking on the UP T20 League, the Indian pacer has asserted that the UP T20 League gives him an ideal platform to stay in touch with the game and keep himself prepared for bigger opportunities.
“There are plenty of opportunities, even for me to stay in touch and keep myself prepared, and for the young boys to perform well here and step up to the next level. I think it’s a great platform for everyone. As for how the Lucknow Falcons performed in the UP T20, we didn’t win the final, but overall, we did well to qualify for the semifinals. Our goal this time will be to see how we can do better, reach the final, and win it. I think every team is here to do that, but how we achieve it is on our mind.”
He further added, “Without a doubt, 100%. If you look at our domestic board tournaments, whether it’s the Mushtaq Ali, Vijay Hazare, or Ranji Trophy, state leagues are the biggest tournaments after them. IPL scouts come here too. If there’s extraordinary talent, as has happened before and surely will again, players get picked and go on to perform in IPL teams. So, I think it’s a huge opportunity and platform for everyone,” he concluded.
