Ashwin Questions Bhuvneshwar's India Future, Backs Shami Return

Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has questioned whether Bhuvneshwar Kumar can find his way back into the Indian team after the fast bowler's underwhelming comeback in the five-match T20I series against New Zealand, which India won 3-2.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin said Bhuvneshwar has not bowled well and did not prove his form, adding that there was a difference of sky and earth between his performances in the Indian Premier League and in New Zealand.

He pointed to lower intensity, a slower run-up and less pace, and said the chapter is maybe closed, asking how the pacer will come back after returning to the side after nearly four years away.

Ashwin instead backed Mohammed Shami for a return, saying the Bengal pacer is in much better rhythm in the ongoing Ranji Trophy, where he has already taken 12 wickets.

Shami has not played for India since the Champions Trophy final against New Zealand in March 2025.

Ashwin's comments are his personal view, not a selection decision, and India's next T20I assignment is a three-match home series against Sri Lanka in December.