Bhuvneshwar Kumar was recalled to the Indian T20I side for the upcoming New Zealand tour, and with this, hopes of his return to the ODI squad have risen as well. This news came as India began their ICC World Cup 2027, which will be played in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia in October-November.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar last played an ODI in 2022, also in New Zealand, and has since focused more on T20S. There has been support for Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s inclusion in India’s ODI squad for the World Cup 2027, and today we will see 3 reasons why Bhuvneshwar Kumar could play in the ODI World Cup 2027.
Here are the 3 reasons why Bhuvneshwar Kumar could play in the ODI World Cup 2027:
3. Valuable experience of ICC events
Bhuvneshwar Kumar has experience playing in the 2015 and 2019 World Cups, the 2017 Champions Trophy, and two T20 World Cups in 2021 and 2022. He has experience playing in ICC events, and it will come in handy when the 2027 World Cup comes. Bilateral series and domestic competitions are not the same as World Cups. Experienced players frequently make the largest impact during pressure-filled knockout matches.
2. Skills with the new ball
Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s ability to swing the new ball both ways has always been one of his greatest assets. Even at 36, he demonstrated during IPL 2026 that he still has the control and accuracy to challenge the best batsmen. Compared to Indian conditions, South African pitches typically offer greater speed, bounce, and seam movement. The new ball’s early swing can develop into a powerful weapon.
1. His partnership with Jasprit Bumrah
If Bhuvneshwar Kumar plays in the 2027 World Cup, he will be opening the bowling for India with Jasprit Bumrah, and India will have two amazing new ball bowlers starting the attack. Bumrah needs a good partner, and that perfect match might be Bhuvneshwar Kumar. During the first few overs, he can concentrate on applying pressure and swinging the new ball. India has two distinct bowling styles thanks to this mix, which makes it challenging for opposing hitters to settle. With both Kumar and Bumrah present, India will have six to eight overs against two potentially dangerous bowlers. Kumar and Bumrah are also outstanding bowlers.
