“It was fair to bring Mayank into the side” - Former all-rounder's huge remark on Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s omission from NZ vs IND 2026 4th T20I

Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan believes it was fair to bring Mayank Yadav into the playing XI in place of Bhuvneshwar Kumar for the fourth T20I against New Zealand, given the latter's limited impact in the first three matches. The contest took place in Auckland on Friday, October 30.

Bhuvneshwar managed to pick up just one wicket in the first three outings, conceding runs at an economy rate of 11.58. Meanwhile, Mayank made his return to the side and conceded 48 runs in his four overs but claimed three wickets as New Zealand posted a mammoth 259/7. In reply, India could only manage 172/9, suffering an 87-run defeat.

Speaking in a video on his YouTube channel, Pathan praised Mayank's progress, pointing out the improvement in his line and length and his ability to trouble batters with his pace. Pathan said:

“Bhuvneshwar Kumar was dropped because he wasn't able to make much of an impact in the three matches. It was fair to bring Mayank into the side, and he bowled well. Although all the bowlers conceded plenty of runs, Mayank's progress has been impressive.

“His fitness has improved, and he has shown consistent improvement in his line and length. The extra bounce he generates with his pace troubles batters. He picked up wickets in this match as well and managed to trouble the batters,” he added.

Mayank Yadav has featured in 12 T20Is, picking up 17 wickets at an economy rate of 8.80.

Irfan Pathan gives blunt verdict on Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s snub from 4th T20I

Ishan Kishan returned to the Indian playing XI for the fourth T20I after recovering from injury, while Vaibhav Sooryavanshi was left out. Speaking about the decision, Irfan Pathan acknowledged that it would be difficult for the 15-year-old, especially after his impressive performance in the third T20I. However, he pointed out that the team combination meant Sooryavanshi would have to miss out on certain occasions. He said:

“The changes in the Indian team saw Ishan Kishan return to the side, while Vaibhav Sooryavanshi was left out. It will be difficult for the 15-year-old, especially after he batted so well in the previous match. However, because of the combination the team has settled on, he has to keep sitting out from time to time. So, whatever opportunities he gets in the coming matches, he will have to grab them.”

Pathan further expressed confidence that the youngster would eventually get a consistent run in the side. He said:

“He will also have to remain hopeful that a time will come when he gets a consistent run in the team. I have no doubt in my mind that when he gets to play consistently, he will become the best player in the world. But things are a little difficult for him at the moment.”

The two teams will return to action for the final match of the series on Sunday, November 1, in Hamilton.

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