Ishan Kishan Celebrates Remarkable Comeback After T20 World Cup Triumph
Kishan Reflects on His 'Rollercoaster' Journey
Ishan Kishan, the wicketkeeper-batter for India, characterized his return to the national team as a 'rollercoaster' ride after playing a pivotal role in India's successful title defense at the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026. In an interview on JioHotstar, he shared insights into the hurdles and victories he faced after being dropped from the squad, emphasizing the importance of clinching the championship.
Kishan's Impressive Performance
During the tournament, Kishan emerged as the fourth-highest run-scorer, amassing 317 runs across nine matches with an impressive strike rate of 193.29. He also achieved three half-centuries throughout the T20 World Cup.
Kishan's Emotional Reflection
"Honestly, after being excluded from the team, it was a long journey for me. Transitioning from domestic cricket back to the national side, participating in this tournament, and ultimately winning the championship has been a rollercoaster experience. We need to secure more championships like this because these moments are unforgettable. I'm thrilled, and so is the team; we aspire to replicate this success repeatedly," Kishan expressed.
India Makes History in T20 World Cup
India has etched its name in history by becoming the first team to win the T20 World Cup on home soil, achieving consecutive titles, and becoming the only team to lift the trophy three times (2007, 2024, and 2026).
T20 World Cup Final: Match Highlights
In the final match, New Zealand won the toss and opted to field first. However, a record-breaking fifty from Abhishek Sharma (52 runs off 21 balls, including six fours and three sixes) and his 98-run partnership with Samson made New Zealand regret their decision.
India's Record-Breaking Batting Performance
Samson later formed a century partnership with Ishan Kishan (54 runs off 25 balls, featuring four boundaries and four sixes), propelling India past the 200-run mark in the 16th over. Following a brief slowdown, Shivam Dube (26 not out off eight balls, with three fours and two sixes) contributed crucial runs, leading India to a total of 255/5, the highest score in T20 World Cup finals. James Neesham (3 wickets for 46 runs) was New Zealand's standout bowler.
Kiwis Struggle in the Chase
In their pursuit of 256 runs, Axar and Bumrah played key roles in reducing New Zealand to 72/5, despite a half-century from Tim Seifert (52 runs off 26 balls, with two fours and five sixes). Although Daryl Mitchell (17) and captain Mitchell Santner (43 runs off 35 balls, including three fours and two sixes) formed a brief partnership, India continued to take wickets, ultimately dismissing New Zealand for just 159 runs.