Ishan Kishan Leads Jharkhand to Historic Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy Victory
Jharkhand's Triumph in SMAT 2025
Ranchi (Jharkhand) [India], December 19: Ishan Kishan, the captain of Jharkhand, expressed optimism about his team's future achievements, emphasizing their strong mentality in securing their first Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) in 2025.
He stated that his primary focus is on performance, putting aside thoughts of the upcoming T20 World Cup squad selection, while recognizing the fierce competition for a place in the national team.
In the final match of the SMAT against Haryana at the MCA Stadium in Pune, Ishan delivered an impressive century. This remarkable feat made him only the second player to score a century in a SMAT final, following Amolpreet Singh from Punjab, who scored 113 against Baroda in the 2023-24 season. Additionally, he became the first captain to achieve this milestone and set a record for the most sixes in a SMAT final innings.
Having last played in an international match in November 2023, Ishan sent a strong message to the national selectors with his explosive 45-ball century, finishing with a total of 101 runs.
His outstanding performance propelled Jharkhand to their inaugural SMAT title, defeating Haryana by 69 runs. Jharkhand posted a staggering total of 262/3, marking the highest score ever recorded in a T20 tournament final, while their bowlers effectively dismantled Haryana's chase.
"We will continue to win more trophies in the future. This year, our mindset changed – every player aimed to dominate and secure victories. Regarding the World Cup squad selection, my focus is solely on performing; that’s my responsibility. I don’t dwell on it. Every player aspires to join the Indian team, but the competition is intense, and we give our utmost effort," Ishan Kishan shared with reporters.
Ajay Nath Shahdeo, the President of the Jharkhand State Cricket Association (JSCA), celebrated the historic SMAT victory, attributing it to the team's unity and dedication. He commended each player and the coaching staff for their contributions, particularly highlighting Ishan's leadership in fostering team cohesion throughout the tournament.
"It’s a privilege for Jharkhand to have won the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy for the first time. Every player put forth their best effort, our coaching staff was fully committed, and Ishan Kishan played a pivotal role in uniting the team. From the beginning of the tournament, he worked diligently to uplift the squad," Ajay Nath Shahdeo remarked.
This victory signifies Jharkhand's first triumph in the prestigious domestic T20 tournament, placing them among the elite Indian domestic champions. For Ishan Kishan, this century marks his fifth in SMAT history, tying him for the most centuries in the tournament and solidifying his reputation as one of the most dynamic white-ball players in the nation.