'Discipline, hard work and resilience.. welcome back, Bhuvi!': Raina on swing king's return

Former Indian batter Suresh Raina has celebrated Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s return to the national T20I squad after the veteran fast bowler was named in a 16-member group for the upcoming five-match series against New Zealand, starting October 22.

Bhuvneshwar, who last represented India in a T20I in November 2022, returns to an otherwise largely unchanged side captained by Shreyas Iyer. The selection panel retained the core of the group currently competing against the West Indies, making the 36-year-old seamer the stand-out addition. His ability to move the ball both ways is expected to be a major asset in New Zealand’s seam-friendly conditions.

Taking to X to celebrate his former Uttar Pradesh teammate's comeback, Raina praised the bowler's resilience and dedication.

“Welcome back, Bhuvi! So happy to see one of India’s finest and most skillful bowlers getting his recognition again. The discipline, hard work and resilience he has shown over the years is truly inspiring. From Uttar Pradesh to the IPL, and now back in the Indian T20 side, this comeback is thoroughly deserved. Keep inspiring, @BhuviOfficial. Your journey is a reminder that hard work always finds its way back,” Suresh Raina wrote on X.

The right-arm pacer brings immense experience to India's pace attack, having taken 90 wickets in 87 T20Is at an impressive economy rate of 6.96 and an average of 23.10.

For Raina, Bhuvneshwar's return is more than just a tactical inclusion—it marks the culmination of a long journey from domestic cricket in Uttar Pradesh and stellar IPL performances back to the international stage.

The five-match T20I series against New Zealand kicks off on October 22. (IANS)