New Delhi: India faces New Zealand today in the 5th T20, which also serves as the team’s final match before the T20 World Cup. One of the key questions heading into this game is whether Ishan Kishan will return to the playing XI.
Ishan had been sidelined for the 4th T20 due to a minor injury. However, according to Team India’s batting coach Sitanshu Kotak, the wicketkeeper-batter is likely to make a comeback in today’s match.
Ishan Kishan’s Impact and Comeback
Ishan had delivered explosive performances in the second and third T20s, scoring 76 runs off 32 balls and 28 runs off 13 balls, respectively. His absence in the 4th T20 contributed to India’s 50-run defeat. Addressing the media, Kotak gave a positive update, saying there is a “high likelihood” that Ishan will play, as he is currently undergoing physio sessions and is in good shape to return.
Kotak said, “Whenever Ishan Kishan has been given a chance, he has always performed well. Sometimes wicketkeeper-batters don’t get enough opportunities, but when he has played, he has always been impressive. His recent innings were very encouraging, especially during the powerplay, which is exactly where you want someone with his attacking style.”
Aggressive Batting Approach
During the press conference, Kotak also spoke about India’s aggressive batting strategy. He said that players like Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, and Suryakumar Yadav allow the team to adopt an attacking approach, adjusting their game plan based on pitch conditions, wickets in hand, and whether they are chasing or setting a target.
With Ishan Kishan likely back in the lineup, India will hope to end their pre-World Cup series on a high note against New Zealand.
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