One of the noticeable exclusions from the India squad for the three-match T20I series against Afghanistan is Ishan Kishan, who had earlier taken a break, citing “personal reasons” before the South Africa Test series. The recent squad announcement indicates his continued unavailability, and the BCCI selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, is reportedly exploring alternatives beyond Ishan in the T20I format.
While the BCCI’s statement mentioned “personal reasons” for Ishan’s withdrawal from the South Africa Test series, a subsequent report revealed “mental fatigue” as the actual cause. This fatigue stemmed from constant travel with the Indian team without consistent game time.
Ishan, on the road since the beginning of the year, had limited appearances in the recent T20I series against Australia and South Africa. Jitesh Sharma was preferred over him in the South Africa series.
According to PTI, Ishan is presently on a break and vacationing. However, the selectors are reportedly looking beyond the left-hander, with discussions about his potential inclusion in the England Test series.
“Ishan wasn’t happy that he was traveling without much game time. He is on a break right now and is vacationing. In any case, selectors are in all likelihood looking beyond Kishan. It will be interesting if he is picked for England Test series where KS Bharat will be back behind the stumps,” mentioned a BCCI source.
For Ishan to make a comeback, an impressive performance in the IPL 2024 season for Mumbai Indians could be crucial.
Jitesh remains in contention after a solid performance against Australia. Sanju Samson, who scored a remarkable century in an ODI against South Africa, has been selected as another wicketkeeping option.
