Ravichandran Ashwin Praises Ishan Kishan's Return to India's T20 World Cup Squad
Ashwin's Insights on Kishan's Selection
New Delhi, December 20: Former Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin shared his thoughts on Ishan Kishan's inclusion in the Indian squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup.
Ashwin expressed that Kishan's return is a testament to the respect he has shown towards the game of cricket. He emphasized that this opportunity is a reward for Kishan's dedication.
Kishan has made a comeback as a second wicketkeeper-batter after leading Jharkhand to victory in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT), where he was the top scorer.
“This is a gift that cricket has given to Ishan Kishan. While some may view it as unfair, life has a way of coming full circle. His absence from the team earlier and his return now is solely because he has honored the game,” Ashwin remarked on his YouTube channel.
Having had an outstanding SMAT 2025/26 season, Kishan played a crucial role in Jharkhand's first-ever title win, last appearing in a T20I against Australia in late 2023.
He amassed 517 runs in 10 innings during the SMAT, averaging 57.44, which included two centuries and two fifties, with a remarkable strike rate exceeding 197.
Suryakumar Yadav will captain the 15-member squad for the T20 World Cup, with Shubman Gill being dropped due to fitness and form issues, while Axar Patel returns as vice-captain.
Ashwin pointed out Kishan's consistent performances across various tournaments, including the Buchi Babu Trophy and Ranji Trophy preparations, which solidified his place in the T20 World Cup squad.
“He showcased his talent in the Buchi Babu Trophy and was a standout performer in the Ranji Trophy preparations for Jharkhand. His contributions in first-class cricket and SMAT were exceptional, leading to this selection. This is about Ishan Kishan the cricketer, who has respected the game and achieved success,” he added.
India is set to compete in Group A alongside Namibia, the Netherlands, Pakistan, and the United States, kicking off their campaign against the USA on February 7 in Mumbai.
India's squad for the T20 World Cup 2026 and the New Zealand T20I series includes: Suryakumar Yadav (captain), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (wicketkeeper), Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel (vice-captain), Rinku Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakaravarthy, Washington Sundar, and Ishan Kishan (wicketkeeper).