I'll continue playing, rest is selectors' call: Bhuvneshwar Kumar

Bhuvneshwar Kumar, the seasoned right-arm pacer, is currently focused on playing cricket, not on his potential selection for India. After a successful IPL where he became the first pacer to take 200 wickets, Kumar is ramping up for the upcoming UPT20 league with Lucknow Falcons. Known for his effective powerplay bowling and ability to take wickets, Kumar took 28 wickets in the IPL, with 17 in the Powerplays, maintaining an economy rate of 8.

He has expressed no inclination to return to the Indian national team, stating, "I’m here to play, and that’s what I’m doing. My job is to play cricket; judging how prepared I am isn’t something that I focus on." The 36-year-old pacer, one of Uttar Pradesh's most experienced cricketers, remains a key player in domestic cricket. Bhuvneshwar has taken 231 wickets in 72 Ranji Trophy matches and last played for India in 2022.

With the UPCA launching a speed hunt initiative to boost pace resources, Bhuvneshwar is open to playing Ranji cricket if the opportunity arises, aiming to keep playing as much cricket as possible.