Suryakumar Confirms Ishan Kishan at No.3, Plays Down His Own Lack of Runs

India’s T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav has put an end to speculation around the batting order by confirming that Ishan Kishan will continue to bat at No.3. While calmly brushing aside concerns about his own recent lack of big scores.

Speaking ahead of the upcoming international fixture, Suryakumar emphasized the importance of role clarity within the batting unit. He stated that Ishan Kishan’s aggressive intent and ability to dominate the middle overs make him a natural fit at No.3. Especially in high-pressure T20 situations. According to the skipper. Ishan’s approach allows the team to maintain momentum after the powerplay and put bowlers under constant pressure.

On his own form, Suryakumar played down the narrative around runs, stressing that leadership and impact go beyond personal statistics. He highlighted that modern T20 cricket is about intent, adaptability, and setting the tone for the rest of the lineup. “If the team is winning and players are executing their roles, individual numbers don’t matter much,” he remarked.

Suryakumar Yadav

The Indian captain also backed the team’s overall balance. Pointing out that consistency in the batting order helps players settle into defined roles. With young talents and experienced campaigners working in tandem. India aims to build a stable yet aggressive top order heading into a packed international calendar.

For Ishan Kishan, the backing from the captain could be a confidence booster as he looks to cement his place in the middle order. His ability to attack spin, rotate strike, and accelerate when needed adds flexibility to India’s batting strategy.

As India prepares for crucial matches ahead, Suryakumar’s calm approach reflects a leadership style focused on trust, clarity, and team success. With roles clearly defined and pressure kept at bay. The Indian setup appears keen on fostering a fearless brand of cricket—one where confidence is built through responsibility rather than numbers alone.

No Gill, Jitesh for T20 World Cup; Ishan Kishan Returns to India T20I Squad

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced India’s T20I squad for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, and the selection has already sparked widespread discussion among fans and experts. The biggest talking points from the announcement are the omission of Shubman Gill and Jitesh Sharma, while Ishan Kishan has made a notable return to the national T20I setup.

Key Omissions Raise Eyebrows

Shubman Gill’s absence has come as a surprise to many, given his reputation as one of India’s most technically sound batters across formats. While Gill has shown consistency in ODIs and Tests, selectors appear to have prioritised players with a stronger recent impact in the shortest format. His strike rate and role fit in high-pressure T20 World Cup conditions may have influenced the decision.

Similarly, wicketkeeper-batter Jitesh Sharma misses out despite being seen as a promising finisher in recent seasons. Known for his aggressive batting in the middle and death overs, Jitesh’s exclusion suggests the selectors are leaning towards experience and versatility over experimentation as the tournament approaches.

Ishan Kishan’s Comeback

The return of Ishan Kishan marks a significant development in India’s T20 plans. After spending time out of the national side, the left-handed opener has worked his way back through consistent performances in domestic cricket and franchise tournaments. His ability to provide quick starts at the top of the order, combined with his experience as a wicketkeeper, makes him a valuable asset in T20 cricket.

Kishan’s inclusion also adds balance to the squad, offering a left-right opening combination and an aggressive approach in the powerplay—something India has often relied on in global tournaments.

Squad Strategy and Team Balance

The selected squad reflects a clear focus on power-hitting, all-round depth, and bowling flexibility. The management appears intent on building a side that can adapt to different conditions, whether it’s flat batting pitches or slower surfaces where variation and control become crucial.

Experienced campaigners form the backbone of the team, while a few dynamic players provide explosive options with both bat and ball. The emphasis seems to be on players who can contribute in multiple areas, reducing dependency on specialists.

What This Means for India

India’s squad selection indicates a shift towards form and role clarity rather than reputation alone. With the T20 World Cup known for its unforgiving nature, the team management has opted for players who fit specific tactical requirements.

For Gill and Jitesh, the door is not closed. Strong performances in upcoming series and leagues could quickly bring them back into contention. Meanwhile, Ishan Kishan now has a crucial opportunity to cement his place and make a strong impact on the world stage.

Final Thoughts

Squad announcements are always subject to debate, and this one is no different. As India gears up for the T20 World Cup, the focus will now turn to execution on the field. With a blend of experience, firepower, and adaptability, the selected squad will aim to bring consistency and composure when it matters most. Only time will tell whether these bold selection calls pay off on the global stage.

Double Blow for East Zone: Kishan Out of Duleep Trophy Opener, Akash Deep Rested

The Duleep Trophy 2025 has hit early turbulence as East Zone’s preparations have suffered a double setback. Wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan has been ruled out of the opening match, while fast bowler Akash Deep has been advised rest due to fitness concerns. Both developments were confirmed by the East Zone team management ahead of their first fixture, leaving the squad with significant changes to make at the last minute.

Ishan Kishan’s Absence

Ishan Kishan, one of the biggest names in the East Zone lineup, was expected to play a pivotal role at the top of the order and provide stability behind the stumps. However, medical advice has ruled him out of the opener. While the team has not disclosed the exact nature of his setback. It is believed to be a precautionary measure to ensure his long-term fitness.

Kishan’s absence is a major blow, considering his recent form in the domestic circuit. His aggressive batting style and experience of playing international cricket would have given East Zone an edge. With the Asia Cup and other international assignments around the corner, the BCCI is taking no chances with the wicketkeeper-batter’s workload.

Akash Deep Rested

In another worrying development, speedster Akash Deep has also been sidelined for the opening clash after being advised rest. The Bengal pacer has been an integral part of East Zone’s bowling plans. Especially with his ability to swing the new ball and generate pace on flat tracks. His absence leaves the bowling unit short of experience.

Akash Deep has been carrying a minor strain, and the medical team recommended rest to avoid aggravating the issue. Though his injury is not considered serious, East Zone will miss his services at a time. When they were banking on a strong start to the tournament.

Replacements and Strategy

The East Zone think tank will now have to rethink their approach for the opener. With Kishan unavailable, a new wicketkeeper-batter will step into the playing XI. While the pace attack will rely heavily on younger bowlers to fill Akash Deep’s shoes. Players from the bench are expected to get opportunities. Which could turn out to be career-defining moments for them.

An official close to the team stated, “These setbacks are unfortunate, but the Duleep Trophy is also a stage for upcoming cricketers to showcase their potential. We believe the squad has enough depth to overcome these challenges.”

Tournament Context

The Duleep Trophy, India’s premier inter-zonal red-ball tournament, has long been considered a proving ground for cricketers aspiring to represent the national team. Strong performances here often catch the selectors’ eyes, paving the way for India A or senior team opportunities.

East Zone will be eager to overcome these early hurdles and put up a strong show in the tournament. While Kishan and Akash Deep’s absence will be felt. It also presents a golden chance for emerging talents to grab the spotlight.