Former Australian captain Michael Clarke has credited the Indian team management, including the captain and coach, for the successful resurgence of wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan ahead of the T20 World Cup. Kishan recently returned to the national side after a two-year hiatus and delivered an outstanding performance in the T20I series against New Zealand, averaging 53.75 at a strike rate exceeding 231 across four innings.
Clarke highlighted that the decision to stick with Kishan and provide him with the opportunity deserves significant praise. This backing allowed the explosive left-hander to repay the faith shown in him. Kishan's return to form is a major boost for India, who are aiming to defend their T20 World Cup title, and his confidence will be crucial as the tournament begins.
Kishan's ability to dominate attacks from the outset adds significant firepower to India's batting lineup, making the team's middle order look robust and dynamic. His successful integration back into the squad underscores the management's strategic focus on backing match-winners, a philosophy that appears to be paying dividends as India enters the global tournament as strong favorites.
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“Ishan Kishan getting the opportunity is one of the things for which Indian selection, the captain, and the coach deserve a lot of credit. They chose to stick with him. They’ve given him the chance, and he has repaid them so far.”
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Conversely, Ishan Kishan enters the tournament in red-hot form, having smashed a century against New Zealand and a blistering 53 off 20 balls in the warm-up game against South Africa.
Ishan Kishan’s explosive warm-up knock against South Africa may have finally settled India’s long-running wicketkeeper debate. With Sanju Samson out of form and the World Cup around the corner, Kishan’s clarity, confidence, and dominance at the top make him the clear frontrunner.
The left-hander, who replaced Sanju Samson at the top, was at his absolute best, as he smashed 53 runs off just 20 balls, including two fours and seven sixes.

“Ishan Kishan getting the opportunity is one of the things for which Indian selection, the captain, and the coach deserve a lot of credit. They chose to stick with him. They’ve given him the chance, and he has repaid them so far.”