Ishan Kishan had allegedly expressed his availability for the T20I squad in anticipation of the Afghanistan series announcement. However, the BCCI opted for Sanju Samson and Jitesh Sharma instead.
Wicket-keeper batter Ishan Kishan’s absence from the Indian T20I squad for the Afghanistan series has raised eyebrows, especially after withdrawing from the South Africa Test series citing ‘personal reasons.’ Despite expressing availability for the T20Is, the BCCI chose Sanju Samson and Jitesh Sharma as wicket-keepers, leaving fans and critics perplexed. A report suggests that Ishan’s mental fatigue, initially leading to his exit from the Test assignment, was further complicated when he was spotted partying in Dubai. Allegedly, the BCCI selectors and team management were displeased with this, fueling speculation around Ishan’s commitment.
The report indicates that Ishan had requested breaks from previous series due to mental fatigue, initially from the Australia T20Is and later the white-ball series against South Africa, both of which were denied. Eventually, during the South Africa Test series, his plea was accepted. The player’s supporters argue that his off-time destination shouldn’t matter, citing his trip to Dubai for his brother’s birthday celebration.
As Team India gears up for the T20 World Cup, Ishan’s absence in the Afghanistan series prompts concerns about his potential exclusion from the mega event. With the return of Rohit Sharma..
Virat Kohli to the T20 format, the competition for top-order batting slots has intensified. However, a standout season for Mumbai Indians could still put Ishan back in contention for the T20 World Cup selection.