Sunil Gavaskar has picked RCB all-rounder for a Bhuvneshwar Kumar-like comeback to the Indian team.

The star player offers India a combination of left-arm spin, useful middle-order batting and athletic fielding.

The possibility of experienced cricketers returning to the Indian team has gained momentum following a notable development in the national selection setup. With the selectors showing signs of considering proven performers again after picking Bhuvneshwar Kumar, discussions around experienced players making a comeback have become increasingly prominent. Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has now backed an established Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) all-rounder, expressing confidence in his abilities and stressing that age should not stand in the way of selection for major tournaments.

Bhuvneshwar’s return to the Indian T20I squad has added weight to the argument that established international players should not be ruled out permanently. The experienced fast bowler ended a 1,425-day wait for his India comeback during the T20I against the West Indies in Bengaluru. Although the match was washed out, his selection itself represented an encouraging development for players hoping to revive their international careers.

Sunil Gavaskar praises RCB all-rounder’s cricketing intelligence and India comeback

Gavaskar believes Krunal Pandya deserves serious consideration for an India return, highlighting his intelligence, versatility and ability to contribute in multiple departments. The former India opener praised Krunal’s approach to bowling, pointing out how he uses variations in line and length to keep batters guessing rather than relying solely on turn.

Speaking on JioStar, Gavaskar described Krunal as an outstanding cricketer who understands the game exceptionally well. He highlighted the left-arm spinner’s ability to anticipate a batter’s intentions, target the pads and occasionally surprise opponents with a bouncer.

“Outstanding cricketer, really one of the smart cricketers that we’ve. Somebody you see his bowling. He’s not a big turner of the ball, but he mixes his line, mixes his lengths so smartly, he reads the batter’s mind, bowls at the pads. You’ve seen him bowl the odd bouncer as well, so he’s always thinking and plotting against the batter, if not to get him out, at least to restrict him,” said Gavaskar.

According to Gavaskar, Krunal’s tactical awareness makes him particularly valuable in pressure situations. His contribution is not restricted to taking wickets, as he can also control the scoring rate and build pressure through disciplined bowling. Gavaskar also underlined Krunal’s batting ability and fielding credentials, arguing that players who can influence matches in different roles deserve consideration when India assemble their squads for major international competitions.

He maintained that selectors should prioritise fitness, current performances and the ability to deliver rather than making decisions based primarily on a player’s age. Gavaskar believes that consistent displays in the IPL and domestic cricket should provide experienced players with a pathway back into the national setup.

“And then as a batter, as a fielder in the deep, he’s an outstanding cricketer and I do believe that if you want to win the World Cups, you just go with the guys who you think will win the World Cup. Don’t look at their age. That’s not the point. If they’re playing in the IPL, they’re fit. If they’re playing, domestic cricket, they are fit and if they’ve performed in that, you pick them in the India team. That’s how you should go about it,” added Gavaskar.

Bhuvneshwar’s return has prompted discussions about whether other seasoned performers could also receive another opportunity. Krunal, who last represented India during the 2021 tour of Sri Lanka, is among the players whose experience and all-round abilities could strengthen his case. However, a recall would depend on his performances, fitness and the team’s requirements rather than reputation alone.

What the star all-rounder brings to the table?

Krunal offers India a combination of left-arm spin, useful middle-order batting and athletic fielding. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball could provide selectors with greater flexibility when building a balanced squad. With the ball, he can operate during the middle overs, vary his pace and angles, and attempt to restrict opposition scoring. His experience in high-pressure IPL matches also gives him an understanding of handling aggressive batters and adapting to different match situations.

His batting could prove equally useful, particularly when a team needs momentum in the middle order or additional runs towards the end of an innings. Krunal’s fielding further enhances his value as a multi-dimensional player. Gavaskar’s backing has strengthened the conversation surrounding Krunal’s international future. While a comeback remains uncertain, his performances in domestic cricket and the IPL could determine whether he gets another chance to represent India.