Ashwin Lauds Kishan's 'Sharpening My Knife' Mentality in Stunning Return
Explosive wicket-keeper batter Ishan Kishan has delivered a career-defining performance in the T20I series against New Zealand, culminating in a maiden T20I century that has drawn high praise from former Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin. Kishan's remarkable comeback after nearly two years out of the national side has been nothing short of spectacular, with Ashwin highlighting the mental fortitude behind his success.
Kishan's Dominant Batting Display in Thiruvananthapuram
In the fifth T20I held in Thiruvananthapuram, Kishan smashed a blistering 42-ball hundred against New Zealand, amassing 215 runs across four innings at an astonishing strike rate of 231.18. This performance not only secured India's dominance in the series but also marked Kishan's emphatic return to form, showcasing his ability to tear apart bowling attacks with precision and power.
Ashwin's Insightful Praise for Kishan's Comeback Journey
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin emphasized that Kishan's knock was more than just runs; it was a statement to selectors and team management. "It is not a knock; it is a statement. He is asking, 'I am going for the World Cup, how many of you are joining me?'" Ashwin remarked, underscoring the strategic impact of Kishan's performance.
Reflecting on Kishan's time away from the team, Ashwin added, "If someone asks Ishan when he was out of the team, he can proudly say, 'I was sharpening my knife'. The way he has come back, it has not looked like a comeback, really. He has come back as twice the player he was. There is no lack of confidence and shot range."
Kishan's Dual Role: Batting Brilliance and Keeping Duties
In the final T20I, Kishan not only played a match-winning innings but also took over wicket-keeping duties from Sanju Samson, who struggled with the bat throughout the series. While Kishan's batting was emphatically effective, his glovework showed signs of rust, with missed stumping opportunities. However, Ashwin defended this aspect, noting, "Ishan is one of the better glovemen that India have. Maybe this was a game where he was keeping wickets after a long time. Let's not judge him by this game. He is a fine keeper."
Implications for Team India and Future Selections
Kishan's phenomenal return positions him as a strong contender for upcoming tournaments, including the World Cup. His ability to perform under pressure and adapt to roles, as seen in this series, adds depth to India's batting and keeping options. Ashwin's comments highlight how Kishan's journey of self-improvement during his absence has translated into on-field success, making him a key player to watch in future matches.
