Ishan Kishan’s Return to Team India in Doubt: Former Star Criticizes Selection Committee’s Decision

Former star wicketkeeper-batsman of Team India, Ishan Kishan, is facing hurdles in his comeback journey. Former cricketer and expert Aakash Chopra has also critiqued Ishan Kishan’s situation. Aakash Chopra believes that if Ishan Kishan is serious about a return to Team India, he should have played in the Ranji Trophy. There were hopes that by participating in the Ranji Trophy, Ishan Kishan would prove his form and fitness, leading to a comeback in the Test series against England. However, Ishan Kishan did not play a single match for Jharkhand in the Ranji Trophy.

The tough phase for Ishan Kishan began with the South Africa tour, where he took a break citing mental health reasons. Following this break, Ishan Kishan was not selected for the T20 series against Afghanistan. Even in the first two Test matches against England, Kishan did not find a place, raising questions about his exclusion. In response to this, Team India’s coach Rahul Dravid stated that if Ishan Kishan wants to make a comeback, he will have to start playing some form of cricket. However, Kishan did not participate in any matches in the Ranji Trophy.

The road to comeback seems closed for Ishan Kishan. Aakash Chopra supports Dravid’s stance saying, ‘Rahul is right. Rahul Dravid said that one should make themselves available and play some kind of cricket. How can someone be considered for Team India who is not playing cricket at all? Ranji Trophy is currently ongoing, first-class cricket is being played. He should play. You can’t expect someone to be selected, who is not willing to declare their availability, then how can a comeback happen.’

Aakash Chopra fears that there is a lack of progress in Ishan Kishan’s case. He expressed hope on his YouTube channel, highlighting that Ishan Kishan asked for a break due to mental fatigue and that it’s been a long period. He further stated, ‘Ishann Kishan has neither played competitive cricket nor any first-class cricket. I genuinely hope that he’s fine, that everything is okay.’ According to Chopra, Ishan Kishan needs to play in the Ranji Trophy before a consideration is made for his return to the national team. Whether he plays in the Ranji Trophy or any other tournament, his re-entry into Team India will depend on his readiness. Such as CS Bharat or not.’

Chopra emphasized that the likes of Dhruv Jurel may get an opportunity or someone like Jagadeesan might come in as well. Only time will tell. But India won’t be headed towards Ishan until he starts playing competitive cricket again. It’s better not to engage in the debate about why Virat Kohli is not playing competitive cricket before returning. There’s quite a distinction between Virat Kohli and Ishan Kishan. Let’s not get into that argument, it’s better that way.'”