Sunil Gavaskar backs Krunal Pandya for India comeback like Bhuvneshwar Kumar

Cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar has backed all-rounder Krunal Pandya for a return to the Indian national team, comparing his potential recall to Bhuvneshwar Kumar's recent international comeback. Gavaskar highlighted Pandya's tactical bowling, batting ability, and fielding, arguing that current form and fitness in high-stakes tournaments should outweigh age when selecting squads to win World Cups. Krunal last represented India in July 2021 against Sri Lanka.

Pandya played a vital role in Royal Challengers Bengaluru securing back-to-back IPL titles in 2025 and 2026. In the 2026 season, he scored 226 runs at a 145.80 strike rate and took 14 wickets, reinforcing Gavaskar's stance that his recent performances warrant national team consideration.