On Wednesday (September 2nd) there was a great game between India and Pakistan at the Asian Cup where rain set in and the game was cancelled. In that game, Indian wicket-keeper-batsman Ishaan captured everyone’s hearts. Ishaan had a chance in the absence of KL Rahul against Pakistan where he played a very brilliant inning and toasted it well. This inning from Ishaan could become a threat for KL Rahul.
In the game against Pakistan, Ishaan Kishan, batting number five, played an inning of 82 runs in 81 balls using 9 fours and 2 sixes. Ishaan came to batting at a very difficult time. India lost the third wicket in the form of Shreyas Iyer on the fifth ball of the 10th over, after which Ishaan came on to bat.
Ishaan ran his innings with great understanding and comfort. It was a brilliant batting performance from Hardik Pandya, who was present at the other end, and the two shared a 138 run partnership for the fifth wicket. Ishaan Kishan, known for his aggressive attitude, was slow in his innings and showed he can bat even in such conditions. Ishaan did this work in fifth place, with KL Rahul considered the front runner.
Ishaan Kishan’s brilliant innings against Pakistan will definitely put KL Rahul in trouble somewhere. By playing well against a strong bowling attacker like Pakistan, Ishaan has secured a claim as wicketkeeper for the upcoming 2023 World Cup in India. KL Rahul was touted as the first choice wicketkeeper for the World Cup.
Although Ishaan is selected as a reserve wicketkeeper, he must not now be viewed as just a reserve wicketkeeper. Ishaan’s brilliant innings against Pakistan will certainly give the national side food for thought. On the other hand, if we talk about KL Rahul, he has been absent from the team for a long time due to his injury. In such a situation, his rhythm and game fitness face big question marks.
Rahul has been included in the Asia Cup squad but will miss the first two games due to a swallow. According to multiple media reports, India will announce the squad for the 2023 World Cup on September 5th. In such a situation, Ishaan Kishan can get a chance in the World Cup squad as the main wicketkeeper.
