SportsPosted at: Oct 8 2026 7:29PM


You can’t beat experience: Kotak on Bhuvneshwar’s India T20I recall for NZ tour

New Delhi, Oct 8 (UNI) Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s experience and strong IPL form over the past two seasons were among the reasons behind his recall to India’s T20I squad for the New Zealand series, assistant coach Sitanshu Kotak said on Wednesday.
The 36-year-old pacer last played for India during the T20I series against New Zealand in November 2022. He earned his return after impressive campaigns with Royal Challengers Bengaluru, helping them win back-to-back IPL titles in 2025 and 2026. Bhuvneshwar took 45 wickets across the two seasons, including 17 in 2025 and 28 in 2026.
India will face New Zealand in a five-match T20I series after the ongoing series against the West Indies. Kotak suggested the selectors may have wanted to add experience to a young bowling group.
“One thing is obvious with the selectors, but I can give you an answer based on what I think. In England, I personally felt that with Bumrah not being around and a lot of young bowlers playing, you can't beat experience,” Kotak said at the pre-match media interaction ahead of the second T20I against West Indies at the JSCA International Stadium.
"The young bowlers are good, they are performing well and getting selected, but at some stage you also need some experience.
"That might be one reason. Another thing is that Bhuvneshwar has been doing really well in the IPL for the last two seasons. So the selectors must have thought that, for New Zealand conditions and all, obviously he has been doing well and we need some experience.
"They must have picked him. That's what I can think, unless you can think something different,” he added.
Shami’s return remains a selection call
Bhuvneshwar’s recall has also raised questions over Mohammed Shami, who remains outside the current setup despite playing domestic cricket. Shami last played for India in the ICC Champions Trophy final against New Zealand in March 2025.
Kotak said his selection would depend on the selectors and the team’s requirements.
“First of all, I'm not a selector, so it is difficult for me to tell you that. But Shami is also playing and he is also doing well. If the selectors feel that he is doing well and the team has a requirement, then any player can be selected,” he said.
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Tags: #You can’t beat experience: Kotak on Bhuvneshwar’s India T20I recall for NZ tour
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