I’m a fan of Bhuvneshwar but he won’t be in the scheme of things T20I: Former captain

Bhuvneshwar Kumar may not feature in India’s T20I plans when the selectors sit down to pick the squad for the next assignment, former India captain Kris Srikkanth has said. The former chairman of selectors expressed disappointment with the 36-year-old fast bowler’s performances in the recently concluded five-match T20I series against New Zealand, hinting that the veteran may not get another extended run in the side.

Bhuvneshwar made a much-anticipated return to India’s T20I set-up after four years, with the selection committee bringing back the veteran batsman to add depth to the bowling attack in Jasprit Bumrah’s absence.

The Royal Challengers Bengaluru fast bowler featured in four of the five matches on the New Zealand tour but managed just one wicket. He conceded 180 runs in 16 overs, finishing with an economy rate of 11.25. The veteran struggled to impress as he failed to provide the control and breakthroughs expected of him.

“Bhuvneshwar Kumar was a big disappointment. I expected him to play well in New Zealand conditions. I am very disappointed. I feel bad for him. Yes, he has played four matches. What happens now? When the next selection comes, I don’t think he will be in the scheme of things at all. They say we gave him a chance and he conceded runs on YouTube,” Srikkanth said.

Bhuvneshwar earned the recall due to his impressive performances in the Indian Premier League. The senior pacer has played a key role in Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s recent winning campaigns, taking 45 wickets in 30 matches in the last two seasons.

However, Srikkanth wondered if the selection committee would show the same patience with Bhuvneshwar that might be required to help the veteran player rediscover his rhythm. He also cited the limited opportunities given to young batsmen Vaibhav Sooryavanshi as an example of what he sees as an inconsistent selection policy.

Srikkanth, who was the chairman of the selection committee when India won the 2011 ODI World Cup, said he did not expect Bhuvneshwar to get two or three series to prove himself.

“I’m not saying no. But if I look at the way the selection committee works, I don’t see him getting two to three series (longer rope). Vaibhav Sooryavanshi doesn’t get more than two matches. How do you think Bhuvi will get more matches?

“I’m not saying no (he didn’t have much match practice after the IPL). I’m a big fan of Bhuvneshwar Kumar but I’m a bit disappointed that he didn’t do well.”

India won the five-match T20I series 3-2, but their bowling attack came under scrutiny after conceding more than 180 runs in each of the five matches. The fourth T20I in Auckland was particularly damaging, she conceded 259 runs with Indiahighest total against them in the format.

Bhuvneshwar has not been included in India’s squad for the upcoming five-match ODI series starting on November 4. expressed his desire to return to domestic cricketwith Vijay Hazare Trophy and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy giving him an opportunity to regain his rhythm and match fitness.

India’s next T20I assignment will be a three-match home series against Sri Lanka, scheduled from December 22-27.

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