'You can't just depend on Bumrah, Hardik': Ex-India cricketer urges veterans' return
Former Indian cricketer Hanuma Vihari has urged the national team to recall veteran pacers Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Mohammed Shami to the ODI squad. He argues that the team relies too heavily on Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya and needs experienced bowlers to ensure stability ahead of the 2027 World Cup.
Why it matters
The critique highlights concerns regarding India's bowling depth and performance consistency in international cricket.
Former India batter Hanuma Vihari has called on the team to bring experienced pacers Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Mohammed Shami back into the ODI setup. His comments came after India failed to defend 351 against the West Indies in the third ODI, losing by five wickets.Vihari believes India need more reliable bowling options instead of depending heavily on Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya for wickets, especially with the 2027 ODI World Cup less than a year away.Bhuvneshwar last played an ODI for India in 2022, with injuries affecting his career. However, the 36-year-old has remained effective in the IPL, taking 45 wickets in 30 matches across the 2025 and 2026 seasons for Royal Challengers Bengaluru.“I think they have to bring Bhuvneshwar Kumar back. In my opinion, he is still one of the best bowlers in the country.
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