Former Indian cricket team batsman Suresh Raina has shared a major perspective regarding the upcoming 2027 ODI World Cup, stating that alongside veterans Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, the national side needs another seasoned campaigner. Raina has strongly urged the Indian selectors to seriously consider experienced fast bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar for a spot in the squad. He believes that with the tournament scheduled to be hosted across South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia, Bhuvneshwar's exceptional ability to swing the ball in overseas conditions and maintain disciplined line and length can prove to be an invaluable asset for the Men in Blue.
The Value of Experience and Swing in Overseas Conditions
Speaking during the Uttar Pradesh T20 League, Raina emphasized that navigating the challenging pitches of South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia will require bowlers who possess extensive experience in foreign conditions. Highlighting Bhuvneshwar's skill set, Raina noted that his ability to swing the ball both ways combined with strict control over his line and length makes him a crucial option for India in major global tournaments. Raina is convinced that Bhuvneshwar's knack for troubling top-order batsmen early on will give India a distinct tactical advantage in overseas environments.
Stellar Form in IPL and Domestic Cricket
Bhuvneshwar Kumar has turned back the clock with his exceptional performances in recent months. During the IPL 2026 season, he displayed phenomenal bowling form by claiming 28 wickets across 16 matches, playing a instrumental role in guiding Royal Challenger Bengaluru to their second tournament title. This stellar form extended into the recently concluded Uttar Pradesh T20 League, where Bhuvneshwar picked up 14 wickets in 11 matches. Notably, he maintained a remarkable economy rate of just 6.11 while delivering 1,19 dot balls, although his team Lucknow Falcons narrowly missed out on lifting the trophy in the final.
Guidance for Captain Shubman Gill
Rainer pointed out that having experienced campaigners like Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Mohammed Shami in the setup will act as a massive cushion for captain Shubman Gill. He stated that if senior legends like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma continue to anchor the batting lineup, the presence of experienced bowling stalwarts must naturally fit into the team blueprint. Addressing the selection puzzle, Raina added that selectors must carefully evaluate the ideal combination for the World Cup bowling attack, determining whether to deploy four specialist fast bowlers or rely on six seam-bowling options including all-rounders.
Backing Rinku Singh for Kolkata Knight Riders Captaincy
Beyond his views on the pace attack, Raina also made a strong pitch for aggressive batsman Rinku Singh. Deeply impressed by Rinku's leadership qualities and temperament during the Uttar Pradesh T20 League, Raina urged the IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders to consider handing over the captaincy responsibilities to him. According to Raina, Rinku has consistently demonstrated the ability to absorb pressure in high-stakes encounters and exhibits a sharp tactical understanding of the game, making him fully capable of leading a side.
