Bhuvneshwar Kumar Gains Momentum for India’s 2027 ODI World Cup Squad

Veteran Indian fast bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar is back in the conversation for a place in the national team’s 2027 ODI World Cup squad. After a strong IPL 2026 season with Royal Challengers Bengaluru, where he claimed 28 wickets in 16 matches, former teammate Ravichandran Ashwin publicly urged selectors to keep him in the plans, and former captain Dinesh Karthik also listed him among his predicted picks.

Kumar, who last played an ODI in January 2022, has previously featured in the 2015 and 2019 World Cups and has taken 141 wickets in 121 ODIs. His ability to swing the new ball, even at 36, is seen as valuable for the pace‑friendly conditions expected in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia. Despite being out of the regular international side, Kumar said he is focused on domestic cricket, enjoys the game and is at peace with his career, adding that any further opportunity would be welcomed.

His performances and experience are being weighed alongside younger talent as India prepares its squad for the tournament scheduled for 2027.