Mumbai::Ishan Kishan appears to have moved ahead of Sanju Samson in India’s race for the opening slot ahead of the T20 World Cup, strengthening his case with another explosive performance in the team’s lone warm-up match on Wednesday.
Kishan’s blistering 53 off just 20 balls powered India to an imposing 240 for five and offered strong indication that the left-hander will open alongside Abhishek Sharma when the tournament begins at the Wankhede Stadium on February 7. The innings capped a remarkable run of form that has reshaped India’s top-order plans.
India’s intent was clear from the outset as Kishan and Abhishek tore into the South African attack, adding 80 runs inside the powerplay. Abhishek scored 24 off 17 balls before retiring out, while Kishan walked off immediately after reaching his fifty as the hosts rotated their batters to maximise their final preparation before the tournament proper.
Kishan’s dominance was most evident in the fifth over, when he smashed Anrich Nortje for 29 runs, including four sixes and a four. In all, he struck seven sixes and two fours, showcasing the powerplay aggression India have been keen to lock in at the top of the order.
The clarity around Kishan’s role has come in sharp contrast to Sanju Samson’s recent struggles. Samson, who was widely tipped to open in the World Cup, endured a torrid T20I series against New Zealand, managing just 46 runs from five matches at an average of 9.20, with a highest score of 24.
Kishan, meanwhile, made the most of his opportunity in the same series, smashing 215 runs at a staggering strike rate of 231.18, highlighted by a breathtaking 42-ball century in Thiruvananthapuram. That performance forced his way back into the opening slot, a position he has since strengthened with consistent powerplay returns.
Further down the order in the warm-up, Tilak Varma impressed on his return from injury with a fluent 45 off 19 balls before being bowled by Marco Jansen. Captain Suryakumar Yadav contributed 30 off 16 balls, Axar Patel added a brisk 35, and Hardik Pandya provided late fireworks with 30 off just 10 deliveries as India finished with a commanding total.
From a selection standpoint, India now appear to have found clarity. Kishan’s recent consistency, ability to dominate the powerplay, and familiarity with home conditions make him a natural fit for India’s attacking template, with Abhishek Sharma also offering an attacking left-handed option at the top.
Barring a late rethink, Kishan’s performances have likely closed the door on further experimentation, allowing India to head into the T20 World Cup with a settled and aggressive opening combination.
Source: TOI, India Today
Discussion about this post