How Did Bhuvneshwar Kumar Perform In His Last International Match For India?

Bhuvneshwar Kumar is set to return to India's T20I setup after nearly four years away from international cricket. The veteran seamer last represented India against New Zealand on November 22, 2022, in the third T20I at McLean Park in Napier.

While his latest performances in the Indian Premier League (IPL) have revived hopes of an international comeback, his final appearance for India ended without a wicket. The match was also affected by rain, with the contest eventually declared a draw under the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method.

New Zealand Vs India 3rd T20I: Bhuvneshwar's Final Spell

New Zealand won the toss and elected to bat, with Devon Conway and Glenn Phillips leading their recovery after early wickets. Conway scored 59 off 49 balls, while Phillips smashed 54 off 33 deliveries to help the hosts reach 160 in 19.4 overs.

Bhuvneshwar bowled his full quota of four overs, conceding 35 runs without taking a wicket at an economy rate of 8.75. He did, however, take the catch to dismiss Phillips off Mohammed Siraj's bowling. India's other pacers made a bigger impact, with Arshdeep Singh and Siraj claiming four wickets apiece.

Rain Ends the Contest as India Level the Score

India's chase began aggressively but lost four wickets in nine overs. Hardik Pandya was unbeaten on 30 off 18 balls when rain stopped play, while Deepak Hooda had made nine not out.

India were 75/4 after nine overs, and the match was declared tied under the DLS method. Mohammed Siraj was named Player of the Match for his outstanding 4/17 spell.

That rain-affected game became Bhuvneshwar's final international appearance before his return to the T20I squad in October 2026. Although he did not claim a wicket, his contribution in the field and his experience remained part of India's effort on a difficult day.