Bhuvneshwar Kumar opens up on India recall ahead of UP T20 League

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Bhuvneshwar Kumar is set to feature for Lucknow Falcons in the upcoming UP T20 League, but the experienced pacer has also found himself back in discussions surrounding Indian cricket. His recent performances in the Indian Premier League (IPL) have kept him relevant despite being away from international cricket since 2022.

With the UP T20 League beginning on August 14, Bhuvneshwar was asked about his prospects of returning to the India setup and whether he would be open to another opportunity at the international level.

Bhuvneshwar was speaking while attending Lucknow Falcons’ training session when he was asked about the possibility of receiving an India call-up. The 36-year-old made it clear that he would be ready if the selectors decided to bring him back into the national setup.

“Why would I say no if I get a call? Absolutely ready,” Bhuvneshwar said.

The right-arm seamer, however, stressed that his current focus is simply on playing cricket rather than treating the UP T20 League as a route to selection. He explained that he has joined the tournament because he enjoys the game and wants to continue playing competitive cricket. His comments come at a time when his recent performances have once again brought attention to his international prospects.

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Bhuvneshwar has produced impressive numbers for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) over the last two IPL seasons. After taking 17 wickets in IPL 2025, he followed it up with 28 wickets in 16 matches during IPL 2026 at an economy rate of 7.95. The veteran pacer was also part of RCB’s successful title-winning campaign as the franchise secured back-to-back IPL trophies. His ability to generate movement with the new ball and maintain control throughout his spells remains one of his biggest strengths.

His recent form has also earned support from several former India players. Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravi Shastri and Dinesh Karthik have all backed the possibility of Bhuvneshwar being considered for the 2027 ODI World Cup. For now, however, the pacer’s immediate focus will be on the UP T20 League and his campaign with Lucknow Falcons.

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