Ishan Kishan's return to the Indian team echoes the iconic Hollywood film 'Cinderella Man.' A player who passionately loves the game, yet found himself sidelined by circumstances for an extended period. Then came the time of waiting, struggle, and proving himself once again.
This break wasn't Ishan's choice. The message from the BCCI was clear: to make it back to the Indian team, he had to pile up the runs in domestic cricket. Indian cricket has seen many talents hailed as the 'next big thing,' only to fade away. From Vinod Kambli to Prithvi Shaw, there are several examples.
It seemed at one point that Ishan might join this list. But he refused to give up, spending 785 days out of the team before making a powerful comeback. Against New Zealand in the T20 series opener, he showcased glimpses of his old flair. But it was in Raipur, during the second match, that he proved his mettle, making it clear what he's truly made of.
Ishan blasted 76 runs off just 32 balls, propelling India to a record-breaking victory. Post-match, Mohammad Kaif aptly noted on X, 'Ishan Kishan's greatest strengths are his confidence and hard work. That's what helps him rise after every fall. This is his true comeback.'
Like a tenacious boxer, Ishan continued to hit big shots. It wasn't just the ball, even his bat seemed to take flight. The situation was such that players on the field felt they needed helmets for protection.
Living in the Present: The Biggest Lesson
After a major setback, players often overthink their future, which can be detrimental. Legends like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have always emphasized living in the moment. Ishan Kishan adopted the same approach. From January 2024 to January 2026, he amassed runs in domestic cricket. His crowning moment came when, just before the T20 World Cup 2026, he captained Jharkhand to their first Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy victory, scoring 517 runs in 10 innings with a strike rate above 197.
Post-match in Raipur, Ishan remarked, 'I learned that staying in the present is crucial. Life is long; we shouldn't fear small struggles. They only make us stronger. Staying calm and focusing on what's necessary at that moment is key.' An Indian player returning to their state team often catches everyone's eye, just like Virat Kohli playing for Delhi or Rohit Sharma returning for Mumbai, serving as an inspiration everywhere.
Though not a superstar, Ishan Kishan is a player who once scored a double-century in ODIs. For a team like Jharkhand, still competing with powerhouses like Mumbai or Karnataka, his experience is invaluable. He played a pivotal role in nurturing young talents like Kumar Kushagra, Anukul Roy, and Robin Minz.
Ishan prioritized the team over personal achievements, which added a new dimension to his play. He stated, 'When you return, you want to set an example. Our team's history isn't extensive, but we were keen on progressing collectively. In domestic cricket, the focus was on benefiting the team over personal records. Watching my teammates work hard taught me a lot.'
Gambhir's Solid System
A strong support system is crucial for a comeback. Despite criticisms, Gautam Gambhir's rapport with players has been robust. This is evident in Ishan Kishan's case too. Ishan shared, 'After selection, Gautam Sir told me to do what I was doing in domestic cricket. Total freedom, no pressure. The team atmosphere was supportive, and everyone wished the best for each other.'
Post-match, SuryaKumar Yadav embracing Ishan and Gautam Gambhir's pat on the back showcased the team's unified support. Ishan laughed, 'I wanted to score a century, but maybe another time. Hardik Bhai advised to strike hard with clenched teeth, not softly. And today, it worked.'
With the T20 World Cup approaching, Ishan Kishan's form has made it clear that he has the capability to win matches when needed. His hunger and confidence have returned, marking the beginning of a new chapter. This 'Cinderella Man' of Indian cricket hasn't just returned; he's here to stay and shine.
