Veteran Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has lauded wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan for earning his place back in the national squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup, attributing the recall to the player's profound respect for the game and stellar domestic performances. Kishan was included in India's 15-member squad for the World Cup, set to be defended at home from February 7 next year, replacing vice-captain Shubman Gill from the team that toured South Africa.
Ashwin's 'Respect for the Game' Theory
On his YouTube channel, Ashwin presented a compelling narrative behind Kishan's selection. He emphasized that the cricketer's journey back to the national fold was a direct result of his commitment to the sport's fundamentals. "This is a gift that cricket has given to Ishan Kishan," Ashwin stated. He acknowledged that while some might view the selection as unfair, life often comes full circle. The primary reason for Kishan's earlier absence and subsequent return, according to Ashwin, is singular: "He has given cricket the respect it deserves."
The Domestic Cricket Domination
Ashwin highlighted Kishan's decision to grind it out in domestic cricket after a period away from the Indian team. The Jharkhand captain didn't just participate; he dominated. He turned out for his state in the Buchi Babu Trophy in Chennai and was the standout performer in Jharkhand's Ranji Trophy preparations, proving his mettle in first-class cricket as well.
However, his most remarkable feat was leading Jharkhand to victory in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) 2023. Kishan's statistics in the tournament were nothing short of phenomenal: 517 runs from 10 innings at an astonishing average of 57.44 and a blistering strike rate of 197.32. This all-round leadership and explosive batting performance made him impossible for selectors to ignore.
A Clear Message from the Selectors
Ashwin believes Kishan's selection sends a powerful message to every cricketer in the country. "The selectors are sending a loud and clear message: whatever player you are, whether big or small, whether you are a newcomer, perform in first-class cricket and we have our eyes on you," he explained. While acknowledging Kishan's established pedigree, exemplified by his ODI double century, Ashwin stressed that this recall was specifically about "Ishan Kishan the cricketer, who went through the yards of the game, respected the game, and hence succeeded."
He concluded by calling this development "great news for Indian cricket," as it reinforces the value of the domestic structure and the principle that performance and respect for the process are paramount. The stage is now set for Ishan Kishan to translate his domestic supremacy into World Cup glory for India.
