Bhuvneshwar Kumars Comeback Poses Challenge for New Zealand, Says Mitchell Santner
New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner comments on Bhuvneshwar Kumars return to international cricket ahead of the T20 series.
Christchurch, October 21 (Daily Kiran) : The five-match T20 series between India and New Zealand kicks off Thursday in Christchurch at Hagley Oval, starting at 12:30 PM IST. This series marks the return of Indian pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar to international cricket after a four-year hiatus.
New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner expressed confidence in Kumar’s abilities, stating, “I believe Bhuvi will enjoy the conditions here in New Zealand. If there’s something in the wicket, he will find a way to exploit it. He has been successful in swinging the ball even on some flat pitches in India. So here, especially with the new ball, he will be a challenge.”
Santner also highlighted the difficulties bowlers face in India, mentioning the recent T20 series against West Indies where teams chased down scores of 250. “What bowler would want to face that? Bhuvi will likely feel more comfortable here,” he added.
Notably, Kumar played his last T20 match in New Zealand four years ago. Despite consistently strong performances in domestic cricket and the IPL, he remained out of the national team until now. His impactful displays for Royal Challengers Bangalore in IPL 2025 and 2026 earned him a spot in the squad for the New Zealand series.
With extensive experience, Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s presence strengthens India’s pace attack. He is expected to be effective in New Zealand’s conditions, supported by fellow bowler Arshdeep Singh.
The 36-year-old right-arm pacer has taken 90 wickets in 88 T20 matches for India. His return to international cricket presents an opportunity to reach milestones of 100 international matches and 100 wickets in T20 cricket.
