Ahead of the crucial fixture in Bengaluru, a major change has been announced in the Indian cricket squad. Experienced fast bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar has been drafted into Team India for the fifth and final T20I against West Indies scheduled for October 17. He comes in as a replacement for Arshdeep Singh, who picked up an injury during the previous encounter. This sudden inclusion has grabbed considerable attention as the 36-year-old pacer has been out of the national setup for the past four years.
Arshdeep Singh's injury and the previous match
During the fourth T20I, while batting, Arshdeep Singh was struck hard on the shoulder by a sharp delivery from West Indies fast bowler Shamar Joseph. Following the impact, he was forced to retire hurt and walk off the field, while India ultimately ended up losing the match. The injury to the young pacer left a void in the bowling lineup, prompting the team management to swiftly call upon an experienced replacement in the form of Bhuvneshwar Kumar.
IPL heroics and upcoming New Zealand tour
This return marks a significant milestone for the 36-year-old bowler. Earlier this month, he received his first major boost when he was named in the squad for the five-match T20 series on the upcoming tour of New Zealand starting October 22. Having wreaked havoc in the IPL with consistent wicket-taking spells, he played a stellar role in guiding Royal Challengers Bengaluru to tournament victories in both 2025 and 2026 through his lethal pace bowling.
