From Out Of Favour To Undroppable? Ishan Kishan’s Stunning Comeback Is Giving Team India A Selection Headache

Ishan Kishan’s Remarkable Return Gains Momentum

Cricket can change quickly, and few players know that better than Ishan Kishan. Once seen as a player drifting out of India’s plans, the explosive wicketkeeper-batter has scripted a remarkable turnaround over the past few months.

After forcing his way back into the national side with impactful performances in the T20 World Cup, Ishan is now making headlines in the ODI format as well — and in a big way.

His latest century against Afghanistan has not only helped India seal the ODI series but also reignited the debate over where he fits into India’s long-term plans.

A Century That Changed The Conversation

Ishan first made his return in the ODI series opener, scoring a useful 34 runs while batting at No. 3. But it was in the second match where he truly made his mark.

Promoted to No. 4, the 27-year-old smashed a breathtaking 125 off just 79 balls, showcasing a blend of aggression, control, and maturity.

The innings wasn’t just about runs — it was a statement.

It showed that Ishan has evolved beyond being just a power-hitter. His shot selection, pacing of the innings, and ability to dominate spin and pace alike reflected a batter growing into the demands of 50-over cricket.

Team India’s ‘Problem Of Plenty’ Begins

While Ishan’s form is a massive positive for India, it has also created a selection dilemma.

With Virat Kohli expected to return and reclaim his usual No. 3 position, and KL Rahul continuing to be the preferred wicketkeeper-batter in the first-choice XI, the batting order looks crowded.

Yet dropping Ishan after performances like these would be difficult.

India’s management now faces the challenge of balancing experience with form, especially ahead of the important England ODI series, for which the squad is yet to be announced.

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Coach Ryan ten Doeschate Backs Ishan’s Growth

India assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate has openly praised Ishan’s development, saying the biggest concern was whether he could transition from being just a T20 specialist into a dependable 50-over and possibly red-ball player.

According to the coach, Ishan has answered that question emphatically.

He also pointed out that India’s current ODI approach values aggressive batters who can keep the scoring rate high, and Ishan fits that template perfectly.

With players like Virat Kohli and Shubman Gill providing stability, someone like Ishan adds the attacking edge.

Final ODI Offers Another Big Opportunity

With India already leading the series 2-0, the third ODI at the MA Chidambaram Stadium offers Ishan another golden opportunity to strengthen his claim.

A strong performance in the dead rubber could make it even harder for selectors to ignore him.

Meanwhile, team management has hinted at a few changes, with Nitish Kumar Reddy likely to return and Arshdeep Singh expected to be rested. Fast bowler Harshit Rana, recently added to the squad, is unlikely to make the playing XI.

But all eyes will undoubtedly be on Ishan.

Because right now, his journey is no longer just a comeback story — it’s becoming a serious case for permanent selection.