‘He never chased the prize’: Ashwin reveals what made Bhuvneshwar Kumar return to India

Ravichandran Ashwin believes Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s return to India’s T20I set-up is more a reward for his consistency than a result of chasing an international comeback. The veteran pacer earned a recall to the national team after impressing for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the IPL, with Ashwin crediting his focus on performance for his comeback.Bhuvneshwar’s selection for India’s upcoming five-match T20I series against New Zealand starting next week was one of the main talking points after the team was announced. The right-handed paceman will return to international T20 cricket after four years.

“He went his own way”

On his YouTube channel, Ashwin suggested that Bhuvneshwar should continue to focus on improving his bowling and fulfilling his duties for RCB rather than worrying about a potential withdrawal from India.“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 backs India for 2027 ODI World Cup and picks South Africa as serious opponent

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.Ashwin pointed to India’s pace-bowling resources, spin options and batting experience as reasons to believe the team can start a strong campaign. He particularly highlighted Bumrah’s importance and hinted that the fast bowler could make a difference if he performs at his best.“India have the ability. If Jasprit Bumrah is firing on all cylinders, he will have a good fast bowling experience. India has good spin. There, on many pitches, spin will help you. Batting experience,” he said.However, Ashwin identified South Africa as one of the strongest opponents, citing the home advantage, familiarity with local conditions and the experience the players have gained through the SA20 league.“Honestly, two to 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. So India will have to play against the South Africa team,” he said.“South Africa, in South African conditions, especially after the SA20, they have the skills, they know all the conditions, they play good cricket and the team looks together. That is a very strong force in cricket,” Ashwin added.