Indian skipper Suryakumar Yadav has confirmed that Ishan Kishan will bat at number three in the T20 international that will be played on Wednesday between India and New Zealand. This was a sort of compulsion for the skipper, who made it clear in the pre-match press conference that the management also wants to give opportunities to each and every member of their squad, who will be a part of the 2026 T20 World Cup.
Kishan's return to India's T20I playing XI is a significant milestone in his career. The left-handed batsman was last seen in a T20I in November 2023 and has not been in the good books of the selectors ever since. A solid performance in domestic cricket made a case for Kishan.
Kishan Earns Recall After Impressive Domestic Season
Ishan Kishan has been chosen based on his outstanding performance with the bat in the recent domestic season. Previously this year, Ishan led his side, Jharkhand, to their first title win in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. This is an indication of not only his batting prowess but also his leadership qualities. These qualities make him an ideal candidate to be re-included in the T20 side of the country.
In his interaction with the media, Suryakumar Yadav confirmed Kishan's role in the squad, stating that Kishan is part of the T20 World Cup 2026 squad for India and deserves some exposure in preparation for the series. The captain backing Kishan suggests the team sees him as a valid option going forward.
Being a number three batsman, Kishan will have some extra responsibility, especially without the presence of Tilak Varma for the series. The requirements of the role include ability to maintain stability and control in the middle overs, of which Kishan will be eager to provide.
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Big Chance for Kishan to Cement His Spot
So far, Ishan Kishan has played 32 T20Is for India, scoring 796 runs with six 50s. Fair enough for the records, but he would want to work on his consistency while representing India.
This five-match T20I series against New Zealand is crucial for Kishan to build a case for securing his position in the Indian side as a backup wicketkeeper-batter. With the T20 World Cup looming, every game will be under the selectors' watchful eye.
The Indians are also likely to rotate their players in the series in a bid to test some combinations. However, Kishan is set to focus on grasping this chance to showcase his talent in India’s future T20 plans.
