Ishan Kishan, Team India’s dynamic wicketkeeper-batsman, recently took a hiatus from the grueling cricketing schedule, triggering widespread discussions in the Indian cricket community. His decision stemmed from mental fatigue, a consequence of continuous involvement in the West Indies tour, the Asia Cup, the ODI World Cup, the T20I series against Australia, and the South Africa tour, all packed into a relentless stretch last year.
However, the competition for spots in the Indian squad remains intense, and Ishan now finds himself facing challenges to reclaim his position in the wicketkeeping lineup. Sanju Samson, his replacement in the ODIs against South Africa, made a resounding statement with a match-winning century in the series decider, securing a spot in the T20I squad against Afghanistan.
KL Rahul assumed the wicketkeeping role in Tests, delivering a stellar century in the Centurion Test. Additionally, head coach Rahul Dravid hinted that Ishan may need to prove himself in domestic cricket to secure a place in the Indian team.
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With over a month without competitive cricket, Ishan’s return to the squad for the England Test series appears uncertain. According to Jharkhand State Cricket Association (JSCA) secretary Debasish Chakraborty, Ishan has not communicated his availability for selection to the state team.
“No, Ishan hasn’t contacted or told us anything about his availability. Whenever he tells us, he will walk into the playing XI,” Debasish Chakraborty stated.
Despite India coach Dravid’s clear instruction, Ishan Kishan has not yet made himself available for the play Ranji Trophyhttps://t.co/lhECWBL3cf
— HT Sports (@HTSportsNews) January 12, 2024
Adding to Ishan’s concerns, Virat Kohli’s return to the T20I squad amplifies the competition for batting spots. While Kohli missed the first T20I against Afghanistan due to personal reasons, he is expected to rejoin the team in Indore for the second game, likely taking over the no.3 role in the batting order.
Ishan occupied the no.3 position in his last T20I series against Australia in November 2023. Currently, alongside Kohli, Shubman Gill competes for spots in the top order, with Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal forming the opening pair as designated by Rahul Dravid.
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The competition for Ishan extends to the wicketkeeping role in T20Is as well. Jitesh Sharma has emerged as a leading candidate, positioning himself favorably for the upcoming T20 World Cup. In the opening match against Afghanistan, Jitesh showcased his prowess with a quickfire 31-run knock in just 18 deliveries, playing a pivotal role in India’s successful pursuit of a 159-run target in Mohali. His impressive outings solidify Jitesh’s standing at the forefront of the pecking order.
