NEW DELHI: In an unexpected development, wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan has featured in the playing XI of the India C team in the Duleep Trophy's second round, which started on Thursday. His inclusion came as a surprise due to his earlier withdrawal from the tournament because of a groin injury.
The confusion began when Kishan, a regular in India's cricket squad until last year, was initially ruled out of the Duleep Trophy's first round. The BCCI had announced his injury, sustained during the Buchi Babu Invitational tournament, with Sanju Samson named as his replacement in the India D squad.
When the second round squad lists were released, Kishan was not mentioned, and there was no updates about his recovery. However, on September 12, Kishan appeared in the playing XI for India C against India B, causing speculation and confusion among fans and cricket analysts. The second-round announcement had stated no changes in the India C team, adding to the surprise.
The uncertainty over how Kishan, initially ruled out with an injury, suddenly joined the India C lineup escalated without an official statement from the BCCI.
Previously, Kishan had stepped away from cricket due to mental health issues, causing him to be dropped from the Indian squads and lose his central contract. His recent century in the Buchi Babu Invitational was seen as a positive sign of his return.
With Kishan's unexpected inclusion in the Duleep Trophy, fans await clarification from the BCCI. The situation has led to further speculation about his future in Indian cricket.
