Bhuvneshwar Kumar returns but struggles in 1st T20I at Christchurch
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 22, 2026, 9:39 AM
Last updated Oct 22, 2026
Bhuvneshwar Kumar made his return to international cricket for India against New Zealand in the first T20I on October 22, 2026, at Hagley Oval in Christchurch. He finished wicketless with figures of 0 for 49 in four overs as New Zealand posted 225 for 4, their highest T20I total at home. Bhuvneshwar's first over started well, but he was heavily scored off in subsequent overs, reflecting a tough return to the game after nearly four years off. The Indian bowlers as a unit struggled on a flat deck, facing challenges from the New Zealand batting lineup.
- •Bhuvneshwar Kumar took 0 wickets for 49 runs in his comeback match.
- •New Zealand scored 225 for 4, their highest T20I score at home.
- •Bhuvneshwar's first over was promising before his last overs were costly.
- •The match took place on October 22, 2026, at Hagley Oval.
- 9:39 AMYahoo Sports — IND vs NZ 1st T20I: How many wickets did Bhuvneshwar Kumar pick in India return game? Detailing pacer's performance at Chirstchurch
"Bhuvneshwar finally made his return for the Men in Blue against New Zealand in the first T20I and here's how the veteran pacer fared in his return game.
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