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Bhuvneshwar Kumar Breaks Silence on ODI World Cup Hopes: “I Have to Play” India’s Veteran Pacer Sends Clear Message
Bhuvneshwar Kumar has refused to look too far ahead when asked about his chances of returning to India’s ODI World Cup plans, saying his priority is simply to keep playing and performing.
India’s experienced fast bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar has finally addressed the growing speculation around his chances of returning to the national team for the upcoming ODI World Cup.
Rather than making bold predictions about his international future, Bhuvneshwar kept his response simple. The veteran pacer made it clear that his immediate target is to continue playing competitive cricket and let his performances speak for themselves.
Speaking to IANS, Bhuvneshwar was asked whether his recent performances in white-ball cricket, including the IPL and domestic competitions, could put him back in contention for India’s World Cup squad.
His response was straightforward: “I have to play, I am playing. I can’t predict what will happen after that.”
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Bhuvneshwar Chooses Performance Over Predictions
The 35-year-old pacer appears to be taking a practical approach to the question of a possible India comeback. Instead of discussing selection possibilities, he is concentrating on the one aspect he can control — his performances on the field.
For a bowler with years of international experience, Bhuvneshwar understands that selection ultimately depends on several factors, including form, fitness, team balance and the selectors’ plans.
His comments also underline the uncertainty surrounding long-term selection. Rather than assuming that strong performances will automatically result in a national recall, the fast bowler appears determined to remain focused on the present.
Experience Still Makes Bhuvneshwar a Talking Point
Bhuvneshwar has been an important part of India’s white-ball setup for much of the past decade. Known for his ability to move the ball and deliver effectively with the new ball, he has represented India across formats and built a reputation as one of the country’s most reliable seam bowlers.
His experience could become particularly valuable if India considers different bowling combinations for major tournaments.
However, competition for places in India’s pace attack remains intense. A number of younger fast bowlers are pushing for opportunities, making consistency at domestic and franchise level increasingly important for experienced players hoping to return to the national setup.
IPL and Domestic Cricket Could Be Crucial
Bhuvneshwar’s recent appearances in white-ball cricket have kept him in the spotlight. His performances for Lucknow Falcons and in domestic cricket could provide another opportunity to demonstrate that he still has the skills required to compete at the highest level.
For now, though, the pacer is not getting carried away by World Cup speculation.
His message is essentially clear: play first, perform consistently and let the selectors make the decision.
Will Bhuvneshwar Kumar Make India’s World Cup Squad?
Whether Bhuvneshwar eventually makes his way back into India’s ODI plans remains uncertain.
The selectors will have to weigh his experience against current form and the emergence of younger options before finalising their plans. Bhuvneshwar, meanwhile, appears content to leave that decision for later.
His statement — “I have to play, I am playing” — perhaps says more about his current mindset than any prediction could.
For now, the veteran pacer is focused on the next match rather than the next World Cup. If his performances continue to attract attention, however, the conversation around a potential India comeback is unlikely to disappear anytime soon.
