Indian batter Hanuma Vihari has urged the team management to bring Bhuvneshwar Kumar back into the ODI setup after India’s five-wicket defeat against the West Indies in the third ODI at New Chandigarh on Saturday.
India failed to defend 351 runs in the match, with the West Indies chasing down the target in just 48.2 overs. The visitors had also scored 405 runs in the second ODI, highlighting concerns over India’s bowling attack.
Vihari believes Bhuvneshwar can provide the experience and calmness India need in their bowling attack. Kumar had bagged 28 wickets in 16 matches of IPL 2026 and had played a key role in taking RCB to glory.
“I think they have to bring Bhuvneshwar Kumar back. In my opinion, he is still one of the best bowlers in the country. He is proving in the IPL. He will do it. You need that calmness and he brings that. Indian selectors, management, coach, captain all need to think about it,” he said in a video on his YouTube channel.
Vihari also feels the team should consider bringing Mohammed Shami back as they can not always rely on Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya.
“You need to find the right bowling combination. You cannot depend on Bumrah and Hardik. You have to have backup in case of such injuries. I will say go with experience. Get Bhuvneshwar and Shami back. You will have some security with experience. When you need a breakthrough, you can go to them and they will do the job for you. You need stability and experience will always count.”
Vihari reckons Bhuvneshwar Kumar can take the new ball as he can swing the ball both ways.
“You need to find the right bowling combination. You cannot depend on Bumrah and Hardik. You have to have backup in case of such injuries. I will say go with experience. Get Bhuvneshwar and Shami back. You will have some security with experience. When you need a breakthrough, you can go to them and they will do the job for you. You need stability and experience will always count,” he said.
India will next take on New Zealand in the ODI series.
