Ishan Kishan reacts after T20 World Cup selection

Ishan Kishan has been picked in India's 15-man squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup after producing impressive performances for Jharkhand in their triumphant Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy campaign. The Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee announced the squad on Sunday, December 20, at the BCCI headquarters in Mumbai.

Kishan has not played an international match since November 2023. He has 32 T20I appearances under his belt, scoring 796 runs at an average of 25.68 and a strike rate of 124.38. The southpaw has six half-centuries in the format.

Kishan replaced his close friend Shubman Gill in the squad. The latter had been going through a lean phase in the shortest format this year, and the selectors finally decided to give him the axe.

When asked about his reaction following his comeback to the Indian team, Kishan expressed his elation and didn't forget to give credit to his teammates while mentioning the triumph in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy.

“Thank you so much. It feels great to be back in the Indian team. The entire Jharkhand squad contributed to the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy triumph,” Kishan was quoted as saying by India Today.

Kishan's addition to the squad also meant that fellow wicketkeeper Jitesh Sharma had to be shown the door. The 27-year-old is expected to be the backup for Sanju Samson, who is likely to open the batting with Abhishek Sharma.

During the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, Kishan finished as the highest run-getter, amassing 517 runs at an average of 57.44 and a strike rate of 197.32. He smashed two fifties and as many centuries in the tournament.

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In the final against Haryana on Thursday, Kishan smashed 101 off just 49 balls, belting six fours and 10 sixes. His blistering knock helped Jharkhand post a massive 262/3 batting first. In reply, Haryana were bowled out for 193. Kishan became the first player to lead Jharkhand to the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy title.