According to Aakash Chopra, Ishan Kishan still cannot play for India’s cricket team, he hasn’t made it clear he’s ready.
Ishan Kishan chose not to play in India’s Test series in South Africa, stated he was mentally tired. No competitive cricket for him since. They overlooked him for Afghanistan’s T20I series and the first two England Tests.
In a YouTube video, Chopra agreed with Rahul Dravid’s assessment on Kishan’s non-selection. He explains:
“What Rahul has said is absolutely correct. Rahul Dravid has said that he should make available first and secondly, he needs to play some cricket, as he can’t be picked for India if he is not playing any cricket. If it had been the period of June-July, it would have been acceptable.”
“However, the Ranji Trophy is happening at the moment, so if first-class cricket is happening, he needs to play there to show his availability. In fact, he has not even picked up the phone and told anyone that he is available.”
Aakash Chopra
Chopra confirmed that the Jharkhand wicketkeeper-batsman had been practicing at Kiran More’s facility in Baroda. He noted that the Mumbai Indians player may be practicing for the forthcoming Indian Premier League season and that he would need to follow protocol to return to the Indian system.
Aakash Chopra dismisses rumors of Ishan Kishan’s discontent over Jitesh Sharma’s selection
Aakash Chopra dismisses claims that Ishan Kishan was upset over Jitesh Sharma being played ahead of him. He explained:
“There was a rumor that he wasn’t happy with Jitesh Sharma’s selection. Firstly, Jitesh was selected because the Indian team needed a middle-order batter. Ishan Kishan is not giving an audition for No. 5 or No. 6 and he will not play at No. 5 or No. 6 in T20s. So Jitesh only will play there.”
Aakash Chopra
The cricketer-turned-commentator believes Kishan has not been marginalized, contrary to popular belief regarding Sanju Samson.
“So I don’t think that should or would have been an issue. Let rumors be rumors. I won’t compare him with Sanju Samson at all because this Indian team have wanted to keep Ishan Kishan with great love. I don’t think he would be sulking.”
Aakash Chopra
Chopra stated that the only time Kishan may have been wounded was when he was dropped for the following match after reaching an ODI double century against Bangladesh.