New Delhi: The return of veteran pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar to India’s T20I squad has raised fresh questions about the team’s pace-bowling depth ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cupwith reports suggesting that the BCCI selectors are not entirely convinced about their options beyond Jasprit Bumrah.
Bhuvneshwar was recalled to the Indian side on October 6 for the upcoming five-match T20I series against New Zealand, marking his return to international cricket after nearly four years. His selection has also triggered wider discussion about India’s plans for the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.
According to a report by NDTV Sports, several reports have suggested that the selectors’ decision to bring Bhuvneshwar back reflects concerns over the current pace-bowling pool.
Bhuvneshwar’s return raises bigger selection question
Bhuvneshwar’s recall came after an impressive run with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)who won consecutive IPL titles. His ability to swing the new ball and bowl effectively at the death has kept him in contention despite his prolonged absence from the Indian team.
The 36-year-old last represented India in November 2022. His return to the T20I squad comes at a crucial stage as the selectors begin building a group of players capable of handling the conditions expected at the 2027 ODI World Cup.
The key question now is not simply whether Bhuvneshwar can contribute, but whether India have enough reliable fast-bowling options to support Bumrah in a major tournament.
‘Who’re your second and third seamers?’
The report highlighted a blunt question being posed around India’s bowling combination: who are the team’s second and third seamers?
While Bumrah remains India’s premier fast-bowling option, uncertainty surrounding the supporting pace attack has become more pronounced.
Mohammed Sirajonce an automatic choice across formats, has faced inconsistent returns and competition for places. Mohammed Shamimeanwhile, has been working his way back into contention but has not yet secured a regular place in the current international setup.
The selectors therefore face the challenge of identifying a settled group rather than relying heavily on Bumrah.
India’s recent pace options have included Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh and other emerging fast bowlers. However, injuries, workload management and inconsistent performances have prevented the team from establishing a completely settled combination.
Mohammed Shami’s position remains uncertain
Mohammed Shami is another major name in the discussion surrounding India’s 2027 World Cup plans.
The experienced pacer last played for India in the 2025 Champions Trophyand his continued absence has generated debate over whether he remains part of the selectors’ long-term plans.
Shami has continued to feature in domestic cricket, but his route back into the national side has become increasingly uncertain. Recent reports have suggested that his chances of an immediate recall have diminished, although his experience and record continue to make him a potential option.
His availability and fitness could become particularly important if the selectors decide that India need another experienced campaigner alongside Bumrah.
Siraj also faces competition
Mohammed Siraj’s position is another area the selectors will need to assess before the World Cup.
Siraj has been an important member of India’s pace attack in recent years, particularly in Test and ODI cricket. However, the emergence of younger options means the team management has greater competition for the supporting seamer positions.
The selectors will need to determine whether Siraj remains the preferred second seamer or whether performances from younger bowlers can force a change.
The uncertainty is particularly significant because the 2027 World Cup will be played in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibiawhere pace and bounce could play an important role.
Bhuvneshwar brings experience and swing
Bhuvneshwar’s main advantage is his experience and ability to exploit movement with the new ball.
His recent IPL performances have strengthened the case for his return. He finished the latest IPL season with 28 wickets in 16 matchesaccording to figures cited by NDTV, and played an important role in RCB’s successful campaign.
His ability to bowl economical spells and contribute during different phases of an innings could provide India with another experienced option.
Former India players have also backed his potential return. Ravichandran Ashwin, while discussing his preferred 2027 World Cup squad, had previously included Bhuvneshwar and argued that the veteran should be given opportunities in domestic cricket and tournaments to prepare for South Africa.
India need clarity before 2027 World Cup
The selectors still have time to settle their bowling combination, but the issue is becoming increasingly important.
India’s ideal pace attack could include Bumrah alongside one or more of Siraj, Shami, Bhuvneshwar, Arshdeep, Harshit Rana or Prasidh Krishna. The challenge will be determining which combination offers the right balance of experience, pace, swing, control and fitness.
The recent injury setback involving Prasidh Krishna has added another complication. The pacer is reportedly facing a three-to-four-week absence with a hamstring injury, putting his availability for the New Zealand tour in doubt.
Meanwhile, the selectors are expected to use upcoming assignments to assess their options before finalising the World Cup group.
New Zealand tour could provide important clues
India’s upcoming tour of New Zealand will offer the selectors another opportunity to assess their bowling resources.
The T20I series begins on October 22, while the ODI leg is scheduled for November. The ODI matches will be particularly important for players competing for places in the World Cup squad.
Bhuvneshwar’s T20I recall does not automatically mean he will be part of India’s ODI plans. However, his return indicates that the selectors remain willing to consider experienced players if they believe those players can address gaps in the current setup.
For Shami and Siraj, the coming months could therefore be important in determining their positions in India’s World Cup plans.
Pace attack remains one of India’s biggest questions
India have several quality fast bowlers, but the central concern is establishing a dependable hierarchy behind Bumrah.
The selectors’ reported question over the identity of the second and third seamers underlines the challenge facing the team as preparations for the 2027 World Cup intensify.
Bhuvneshwar’s comeback has added experience to the pool, while Shami and Siraj remain names with significant international credentials. At the same time, younger options such as Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh and others will be looking to establish themselves.
With the World Cup less than a year away, the upcoming international and domestic fixtures will be crucial in deciding whether India’s pace attack has the depth required for a major tournament.