Ishan Kishan on a mission – By Abhishek Haridasan

Cricketer Ishan Kishan is quite a character. When he first burst into the scenes while playing for Jharkhand, his exploits reminded everyone of the potential of a well-known figure in Indian cricket, M.S. Dhoni! He was touted to be the next best thing for India’s quest for a wicketkeeper-batsman. His exploits in franchisee cricket caught the eye of millions watching the game on TV and the grounds across the country.

A double century in ODIs, a splendid start to his T20 career and a brilliant working rapport with the incumbent captain titled the scales in his favour.

However, the past year has been a testing phase for him. Moderate returns during the IPL, the selectors’ preference for other bankable wicketkeepers and his preference for T20 leagues rather than domestic cricket have made people wonder if he will find a place in the white ball or red ball formats.

And now with India winning the T20 World Cup 2024 with a set combination and a change of guard in terms of coaching staff post-winning the silverware, Ishan Kishan doesn’t seem to be in the scheme of things for the growth phase and build-up to the upcoming years.

However, one thing the game of cricket has taught us is… The determined ones look at challenges to prove a point to the pundits and emerge stronger. With the IPL 2025 auction in a few months and India’s long season ahead in terms of bilaterals and World Cups, if Kishan can work on his game and bring a new dimension to his style of play, there isn’t anyone in the world who can prevent him from achieving dizzying heights of success! Kishan’s numbers in the white ball formats have been encouraging since his debut. He must emulate the consistency that his peers and seniors have shown over the past few years to support his rise in the pecking order of Indian cricket.

It’s time for Ishan Kishan to show the world his abilities behind the stumps and with the bat too. Keep away from the chaos and focus on the game, it will reward those who respect and love it! All the best, Ishan Kishan!