‘Had a chat with Virat bhai’ – Ishan Kishan on regaining confidence amidst lean patch in IPL 2021

In his first eight matches for the Mumbai Indians, Ishan Kishan had managed a mere 107 runs at an average of 13.37 at a strike-rate of 87. Thereafter, the youngster lost his place in the playing eleven as his team continued to strain in the UAE leg of the 2021 Indian Premier League. Prior to the 2021 edition of the T20 World Cup, the southpaw’s confidence would’ve hit rock-bottom.

However, the left-hander forced his way into the eleven in the game against Rajasthan Royals on Tuesday, October 5 at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium. Kishan didn’t disappoint as he scored an unbeaten 25-ball 50 with five fours and three sixes. His knock helped the Mumbai-based team chase down 92 with 70 balls to spare and took them to the fifth position in the points table.

The plan was simple to play in the V, says Ishan Kishan

After playing the match-winning hand, Kishan breathed a sigh of relief. He said that the pitch was a tough one for batting and he tried to play straight. Kishan also mentioned that he had a chat with Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya and Kieron Pollard to regain confidence.

“Obviously it’s nice to be back opening and getting the runs. It is a very nice feeling. We fielded first and got a good idea of the wicket… We also knew that the ball wasn’t coming that well. The plan was simple to play in the V. Ups and downs are a big part of sportsmen’s [lives],” Kishan was quoted as saying in the post-match presentation ceremony.

“I had a chat with Virat bhai and Hardik bhai, and also KP [Pollard]. That gave me confidence. What we have to do is be prepared for the next match, and play with the same energy as today,” he added.

For Tuesday’s game, MI had dropped Quinton de Kock, who scored 297 runs, but at a strike rate of 116.01. For the time being, Rohit’s men are locked on 12 points from 13 games along with Kolkata Knight Riders. However, KKR are placed above them due to a superior net run rate. MI’s last league game is on Friday against Sunrisers Hyderabad.