Ishan Kishan, the explosive wicketkeeper-batsman, has opted out of the East Zone squad for the upcoming Duleep Trophy. Reports suggest that Kishan is expected to travel to the Caribbean to participate in all three formats of the game and aims to secure a berth in the final 15-member Indian squad for the ICC Men’s ODI World Cup later this year.
Kishan’s well-placed position as a regular Indian international led to speculation about his exclusion from the upcoming red-ball tournament and raised eyebrows. However, a close confidant of the player denied allegations of Kishan’s lack of interest. The source explained that the cricketer’s travel schedule for different tournaments and his commitment to represent India in every format of the game made it difficult for him to take part in the Duleep Trophy.
Despite his absence from the East Zone squad for the tournament, Kishan is set to head to the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru for strength and conditioning ahead of the West Indies tour, which begins next month. He remains hopeful of making it to the final squad for the ICC Men’s ODI World Cup, which will be held later this year.
Eager to demonstrate his ability in all three formats of the game, Kishan’s exclusion from the Duleep Trophy team may come as a surprise to many. Nevertheless, Kishan’s commitment to his fitness and his ambition to represent India suggest that he continues to be a bright prospect for Indian cricket.
