September 3, 2025

Senior India pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar has finally spoken out about his long absence from the Indian cricket team. At 35, the swing master suggests that no matter how well he bowls, his place in the team depends on selectors – a remark many see as a veiled jab at the Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee. Speaking to Dainik Jagran during the UP T20 League, where he leads the Lucknow Falcons, Bhuvneshwar reflected on his last international game during the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia. “Aapko iska uttar chayanakarta denge (Only the selectors can answer that),” he said when asked if fans will see him donning India's colors again. He promised, “My job is to give 100 percent on the field, and I’m doing that.” He also said he will continue giving his best for Uttar Pradesh in domestic cricket like the Mushtaq Ali, Ranji, or One-Day formats. Despite a stellar career boasting 121 ODIs, 21 Tests, and 87 T20Is with 294 wickets, the veteran pacer has not been picked for nearly three years. While fitness and form were initially questioned after 2022, Bhuvneshwar has stayed fit and consistent in domestic tournaments. He explained, “As a disciplined bowler, my focus remains on fitness and line-length. No matter how well you perform, sometimes luck doesn’t favour you.” When asked about Rajeev Shukla’s new role as BCCI’s interim president and its impact on players from Uttar Pradesh, Bhuvneshwar kept it tactful yet firm on merit. “Your performance is paramount. If someone plays good cricket consistently, they cannot be ignored for long. Even if you’re not selected, focus on giving your 100 percent. The rest is up to the selectors,” he said. “Yes, with Rajeev Shukla as president, it will be difficult to overlook talent.” Currently shining in the UP T20 League, Bhuvneshwar remains one of India's few swing bowling maestros across all formats. His noticeable fall from the national scene puzzles fans, especially as India faces fast bowling challenges ahead of a big tour of Australia. With the domestic season starting soon and Bhuvneshwar leading the Lucknow Falcons, cricket lovers are eager to see if his hard work will bring him back into the main frame. Whether selectors will notice or not, he is ready to bowl his heart out and chase his India dream relentlessly.

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Tags: Bhuvneshwar kumar, Ajit agarkar, Indian cricket team, Selection controversy, Up t20 league, Rajeev shukla,