Bhuvneshwar on Comeback, IPL Success and T20 Bowling Mindset

Bhuvneshwar Kumar has opened up about his return to the Indian team after four years, offering insight into his mindset, his IPL experience and the evolving challenges faced by bowlers in T20 cricket.

The right-arm pacer said he never placed expectations on himself during his time away from the national side. He believed that focusing on his own work kept his preparation on track.

In a recently released video, Bhuvneshwar said he chose to concentrate on the present instead of worrying about what lay ahead. He explained that this approach shaped his thinking over the past three to four years.

He admitted that he had not played for the country during that period. However, he said the experiences and personal growth from those years had given him valuable lessons. He added that he never pursued the Indian jersey actively and did not know when the chance would come.

Bhuvneshwar attributed his comeback to domestic cricket and the Indian Premier League. He said he did not know whether he would return to the Indian side, but he kept preparing for both domestic and IPL cricket.

He said that before the last two IPL seasons, he had no expectations about his role, yet he worked hard on fitness, skills and mental strength. He added that he never thought he would win two IPL titles within two years.

Bhuvneshwar also pointed to the growing aggression among batters in T20 cricket. He said the impact player has changed batting mindsets, and bowlers must remain composed and focused on their plans. According to him, bowlers can still control the game and influence where the batter plays their shots.

He also noted that overseas tours pose unique challenges, particularly in South Africa, New Zealand, England and Australia. Winning in these conditions, he said, brings great satisfaction. He also reflected on India’s opening T20 win against New Zealand, saying the chase boosted the team’s confidence for the series ahead.