BackVeteran fast bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar has been added to India’s squad for the fifth and final T20I against West Indies in Bengaluru.
The series is level at 2-2 after West Indies won the fourth match in Hyderabad, turning Saturday’s contest at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium into a decider.
Bhuvneshwar’s inclusion follows an injury concern involving Arshdeep Singh, who was struck on his left shoulder while batting during the fourth T20I.
Arshdeep faced one more delivery before retiring hurt. He remains part of the squad, with the BCCI stating that his availability for the final match will depend on how well he recovers.
The board has not clarified whether Bhuvneshwar has been added purely as a precaution or as a potential replacement in the playing XI.
The 36-year-old has returned to the national setup following two impressive, title-winning IPL campaigns with Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
His performances have also earned him a place in India’s T20I squad for the upcoming tour of New Zealand, which begins on October 22.
Bhuvneshwar last represented India in November 2022, when he played against New Zealand in Napier. Having spent nearly four years away from international cricket, he could now be considered for the series decider at his IPL home ground.
The fifth T20I will be played at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium on October 17.
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