Bhuvneshwar Kumar vs NZ T20 Series: Stats, Economy & Nightmare Comeback

Bhuvneshwar Kumar vs NZ T20 Series: The return of experienced Indian fast bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar to international cricket has proven to be highly disappointing. After a long wait of nearly four years, ‘Bhuvi’ made his comeback to Team India during the five-match T20 series against New Zealand in October-November 2026. However, his return failed to meet the expectations of the fans. Due to his poor bowling performance throughout the series, Bhuvneshwar Kumar has also ended up with an embarrassing and unwanted record in T20 International cricket.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar vs NZ T20 Series Performance & Stats

In the five-match T20I series against New Zealand, Bhuvneshwar Kumar was included in the playing eleven for four matches. Across these four games, he bowled his full quota of 16 overs but managed to claim only one wicket. Throughout the series, he proved expensive, conceding a total of 180 runs at a dismal economy rate of 11.25. This means he conceded, on average, more than 11 runs per over—a statistic completely at odds with his usual reputation.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar Registers Worst Bowling Average in T20 Series History

Having conceded 180 runs while securing only a single wicket, Bhuvneshwar Kumar has set an embarrassing record for the worst bowling average in a T20 series. His bowling average for the series stood at 180.00. Previously, this record was held by New Zealand fast bowler Kyle Jamieson, who recorded an average of 175.00 during a T20 series against Australia in 2021.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar has now moved to the top of this list, surpassing Jamieson.

What is Bowling Average in Cricket and How is It Calculated?

If you are unfamiliar with the concept of a ‘bowling average’ in cricket and how it is calculated, it is quite straightforward. The total number of runs conceded by a bowler throughout a series or a match is divided by the total number of wickets they have taken.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s Bowling Average Calculation: In the series against New Zealand, Bhuvneshwar Kumar conceded 180 runs and took 1 wicket (180 ÷ 1 = 180.00 bowling average).
Batting vs. Bowling Average: In cricket, a higher batting average is considered better, whereas a lower bowling average indicates a superior performance by a bowler.

Will Bhuvneshwar Kumar Play in Team India’s Next T20 Series?

Following this disappointing performance against New Zealand, the question arises: will the BCCI selectors give Bhuvneshwar Kumar another opportunity in the Indian team’s next T20 series? Given his poor performance and high economy rate during this comeback—which came after a long hiatus of nearly four years—doubts have emerged regarding the future of his international T20 career. It will be interesting to see whether the team management places their trust in him once again or chooses to prioritize younger players.