‘Bhuvneshwar didn’t prove his form’: Ashwin says pacer’s India chapter is over

Former Indian spinner R Ashwin expressed disappointment as veteran pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar's India chapter may have concluded after a lacklustre New Zealand tour. After returning to the national team four years after India's last New Zealand tour, 36-year-old Bhuvneshwar was given the lead pacer spot based on his impressive performances in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

However, Bhuvneshwar's form during the five-match T20 series against New Zealand was far from impressive. In four matches, he managed to take only four wickets at an economy rate of 11.50. Ashwin deemed Bhuvneshwar's performance as not proving his true form. The experienced seamer noted a stark contrast between Bhuvneshwar's IPL form and his performance in the New Zealand series.

He expressed concern over the drop in Bhuvneshwar's bowling intensity, speed, and overall rhythm during the series. Ashwin believes this could be a reason for the selectors to question Bhuvneshwar's readiness for selection in the future. Conversely, Ashwin suggested that veteran pacer Mohammad Shami could be considered for a potential India comeback.

Shami has been bowling consistently for the Ranji Trophy, taking 12 wickets in three matches, and seems to be in better form compared to Bhuvneshwar.