Former India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has made a strong case for veteran fast bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar's return to the national ODI setup ahead of the 2027 ICC Men's Cricket World Cup. Ashwin is urging chief selector Ajit Agarkar to open a direct line of communication with the 36-year-old pacer.
Ashwin's Push for Bhuvneshwar Kumar's ODI Comeback
Speaking during an interactive session on ESPNCricinfo, Ashwin advised Agarkar to reach out to Bhuvneshwar Kumar and bring him back into domestic multi-day and 50-over competitions. The former spinner believes the experienced swing bowler still has a vital role to play for India on the road to the 2027 World Cup.
According to NDTV, reports and discussions suggest that Agarkar and head coach Gautam Gambhir might be looking ahead to a transition phase. However, Ashwin's comments make it clear that he believes experienced bowlers like Kumar should not be left out of that planning.
Why Swing Bowling Matters for the 2027 World Cup
During a 'Yes, No, or Maybe' segment mapping out India's potential 2027 World Cup roster, Ashwin highlighted the crucial role experienced swing bowlers could play on South African surfaces. The 2027 tournament is scheduled to be hosted in South Africa, where conditions traditionally favor bowlers who can move the ball through the air.
"Where is Bhuvneshwar Kumar? He is a yes for me. I would c..." — Ravichandran Ashwin on ESPNCricinfo
Ashwin's logic is straightforward. Bhuvneshwar Kumar has built his career on swing bowling, a skill that becomes more valuable when the ball is likely to move sideways. On South African pitches, that ability could give India a significant edge over opponents.
The Case for Reintegrating an Experienced Pacer
Ashwin did not just stop at recommending Kumar's selection. He specifically urged Agarkar to integrate the pacer back into domestic multi-day and 50-over competitions. This suggests a structured approach — not just picking Kumar for the World Cup directly, but ensuring he has match practice and form behind him before the big tournament.
The call comes at a time when India's pace attack is being reshaped. While younger bowlers are coming through the ranks, Ashwin's point is that experience matters in high-pressure tournaments. A bowler who has been through the rigors of international cricket for years brings a calmness and tactical awareness that cannot be taught quickly.
Our Take: Experience Should Not Be Overlooked
In our view, Ashwin's advice to Agarkar makes complete sense. Bhuvneshwar Kumar may be 36, but swing bowling does not depend on raw pace — it depends on skill, control, and reading the conditions. Those are qualities that often improve with age, not diminish.
The 2027 World Cup in South Africa will demand bowlers who can exploit helpful conditions. Kumar's ability to swing the ball both ways, especially with the new ball, could be a match-winning asset. Ignoring him simply because of his age would be a mistake.
To put it plainly, the selectors should listen to Ashwin. Opening a conversation with Kumar costs nothing, but it could give India a proven weapon for the World Cup. The message to Agarkar is clear — do not let an experienced bowling star fade away when he still has plenty to offer.
