Ishan Kishan, the swashbuckling opener from India, is maintaining a composed stance regarding his potential inclusion in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 squad.
After an electrifying knock of 69 runs off just 34 balls against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the IPL, Kishan expressed his current approach, stating, “The T20 World Cup isn’t something I’m fixating on; I’m keeping it low-key for now.”
His statement comes amidst speculation surrounding his return to international cricket after a hiatus. Kishan had taken a break from the international arena for personal reasons, making a comeback through the high-intensity platform of the IPL.
Despite not finding his name on the BCCI central contract list for the period between October 2023 and September 2024, Kishan’s focus remains unwavering.
Kishan’s journey back to competitive cricket wasn’t devoid of challenges. Amidst the rest period, he continued to refine his skills, understanding the importance of staying grounded amidst external noise, particularly on social media. “When you take a break, people gossip about it a lot, they say a lot of things on social media. But I feel it’s important to understand not everything is in players’ hands,” he explained. “We can only make the best use of the break. This is what adopting a good mindset is.”
His return to form in the IPL 2024 season is a testament to his dedication and resilience. Currently, he leads the run charts for Mumbai Indians with 161 runs at a remarkable strike rate of 182.95. This consistent performance not only bolsters Mumbai Indians’ campaign but also showcases Kishan’s readiness for future challenges.
Reflecting on his approach, Kishan emphasized the importance of focusing on controllables rather than fixating on external factors. “There is nothing like that [that] I want to prove to someone,” he asserted. “I just have to go there and enjoy. I have learned that you do not have to add pressure on yourself about these things, which are not in your hand. You have to figure out what are [your] controllables and what are [your] uncontrollables.”
Kishan’s past experiences, including representing India in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 and being part of the T20 World Cup squad in 2021, have undoubtedly shaped his perspective. As he continues to excel on the field, Kishan’s journey serves as an inspiration, showcasing the power of perseverance and a positive mindset in overcoming obstacles.
