Ishan Kishan heading to NCA for strength and conditioning ahead of West Indies tour

Ishan Kishan was among the 15 players that India picked in their squad for the World Test Championship final against Australia at The Oval. However, he could not make the cut when the playing XI was announced as India persisted with KS Bharat.

Kishan is yet to make his Test debut, however, he has been a regular feature in the Indian white-ball setup. The southpaw blew hot and cold in the Indian Premier League 2023, but eventually finished with 454 runs in 16 matches. He will be making his way to the NCA in Bengaluru for some strength and conditioning as the Indian team is currently enjoying a much-needed break ahead of their upcoming multi-format tour in the Caribbean. The tour will see the two teams contest in two Tests, three ODIs, and five T20Is.

Kishan is expected to play a big part in the series, with some regulars reportedly set to be rested. The players with central contracts or the ones in the national team's scheme of things are called to the NCA to get their fitness levels assessed between two international series. Therefore, Kishan will be joining few other players at the camp.

Ishan Kishan skips Duleep Trophy 2023

Duleep Trophy is scheduled to be held entirely in Bengaluru from June 28, with the final to be played from July 12-16. Kishan was in line for a place in the East Zone team. However, the youngster decided not to play the tournament, according to reports.

Kishan's decision left a section of cricket enthusiasts perplexed as they feel that playing the domestic red-ball tournament could have helped the wicketkeeper-batter's chances of breaking into India's Test XI as KS Bharat's performances have not been anything to write home about, and Kishan could have used the opportunity to impress the team management.