Bhuvneshwar’s return to India is a reward for his success, he never went after him: Ashwin

Ravichandran Ashwin believes Bhuvneshwar Kumar never tried to force his way back into the Indian team. Instead, the fast bowler focused on his work for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the IPL and his performances eventually earned him a recall to the T20I squad after four years.

Bhuvneshwar’s selection for India’s upcoming five-match T20I series against New Zealand focused on his return to the national side. Ashwin believes the pacer’s attitude played a key role in getting another chance to represent India.

The former India spinner said on his YouTube channel that Bhuvneshwar was concentrating on his bowling rather than thinking about an international comeback.

“I feel Bhuvneshwar Kumar didn’t even think of a comeback. I think this will be his success mantra. And watching him from a distance, I have also experienced it myself, he has taken his own path,” Ashwin said.

“He was focused on doing well, bowling well with the new ball and performing for RCB. Whatever he could do, he did it. His recall is a reward for his success. He never chased that reward; he just did his job and success followed,” he added.

ASHWIN ON SHAMI’S INDIA COMEBACK

Bhuvneshwar’s return has also raised questions about Mohammed Shami’s chances of returning to the Indian team.

Ashwin believes the senior bowler can still return to the side, but said he will have to work hard and believe in his ability to make a comeback.

“It depends on the cricketer. If a player believes he can come back, he has to work hard for it,” said Ashwin, who played 106 Tests for India before retiring from international cricket in December 2024.

ASHWIN ON HIS CONNECTION WITH BUMRAH AND KOHLI

Ashwin also spoke about his relationships with Jasprit Bumrah and Virat Kohli.

He said his bond with Bumrah was built mostly on jokes and friendly banter, with the two sharing a good rapport off the field.

“My relationship with Jassi is very good. We always joke and pull each other’s legs. As cricketers, we don’t talk much, so our relationship is very much about banter,” he said.

Ashwin also said that his relationship with Kohli has improved after the batsman stepped down as captain and was able to focus on his role as a player.

ASHWIN BACK INDIA FOR ODI WORLD CUP 2027

Ashwin also backed India to fight for the 2027 ODI World Cup title but warned that hosts South Africa will be a tough opponent.

He pointed to India’s strong spin options, fast bowling attack and experience with the bat as reasons for the team’s success in the tournament.

“India have the ability. If Jasprit Bumrah is firing on all cylinders, he will have a good fast bowling experience.”

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