Why Bhuvneshwar Kumar Is Not In India's Squad For Afghanistan Series?

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on May 19 announced India’s squads for the upcoming Afghanistan series, which includes a one-off Test and a three-match ODI series in June. The series will start with the Test match on June 6 and will conclude with the third ODI on June 20.

However, the fans who were expecting to see one specific name in the squads were disappointed as veteran pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar, one of the best bowlers in IPL, wasn't selected in either squad.

Why Bhuvneshwar Kumar Not Selected For Afghanistan Series?

Bhuvneshwar Kumar Afghanistan series selection might be expected from the fans but he was reportedly never in serious contention despite producing one of the best IPL seasons by an Indian pacer in recent years. The veteran Royal Challengers Bengaluru bowler is currently leading the IPL Purple Cap standings with 24 wickets in 13 matches and has consistently delivered in both the powerplay and death overs.

However, the selectors appeared focused on building a younger fast-bowling core ahead of future ICC tournaments. India have preferred names like Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna, Prince Yadav, and Gurnoor Brar in the squads, which means that Bhuvneshwar Kumar India comeback couldn't happen.

Bhuvneshwar last appeared in a Test match way back in January 2018, while his last ODI appearance came in January 2022, which easily tells that the BCCI has moved on from the right-arm pacer.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar's Excellent Numbers in International Cricket

Bhuvneshwar Kumar remains one of India’s most accomplished swing bowlers in international cricket. In Test cricket, he has played 21 matches and picked up 63 wickets at an average of around 26.09. He also has one five-wicket haul and scored 552 runs, including three half-centuries, showing his value as a lower-order batter.

In ODIs, Bhuvneshwar represented India in 121 matches and claimed 141 wickets at an economy rate of under 5.1. He was a crucial member of India’s 2013 Champions Trophy-winning squad and became known for his ability to swing the new ball in all conditions. At one point, he was amongst the best bowlers in the world and a genuine strike bowler for India. However, constant fitness issues hampered his growth as the selectors moved on towards a younger core of quicks.