Ishan Kishan: T20 World Cup Hopes ‘Not in My Hands’ – MI vs RCB IPL 2024
In a thrilling encounter between Mumbai Indians (MI) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) during the IPL 2024 tournament, MI secured a convincing victory, triumphing over RCB by seven wickets on April 11th. The post-match press conference saw Ishan Kishan, a prominent player for MI, fielding questions about his potential selection for the upcoming T20 World Cup.
Kishan, known for his calm demeanor, responded pragmatically, stating that such decisions were beyond his control. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a focused and composed mindset, opting to concentrate on one match at a time. The magnitude of the T20 World Cup wasn’t lost on him, acknowledging the need for careful and methodical preparation.
Prior to this, Kishan had faced scrutiny from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for opting out of the Ranji Trophy against their directive. Consequently, his central contract with the BCCI was not renewed, indicating potential ramifications for his international aspirations. Media speculation had suggested that this decision might impact his chances of being selected for the T20 World Cup.
Reflecting on the match itself, Kishan offered insights from a wicketkeeper’s perspective, highlighting their unique vantage point in observing and understanding pitch conditions throughout the game. This nuanced understanding, he suggested, played a crucial role in strategic decision-making during matches.
Partnerships and a strong performance in the powerplay were identified by Kishan as critical elements, particularly when chasing a substantial target. He underscored the significance of setting a positive tone early in the innings to build momentum and confidence within the team.
The match itself showcased Kishan’s prowess, as he partnered with Rohit Sharma to establish a formidable opening stand of 101 runs for MI. Despite Rohit’s dismissal, Kishan’s partnership with Suryakumar Yadav ensured that MI maintained their momentum, ultimately achieving the target of 197 runs in just 15.3 overs.
Kishan’s contribution was instrumental in securing MI’s victory, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure and make substantial contributions to the team’s success.