19 December 2025 Punjab Khabarnama Bureau : Indian wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan has finally broken his silence on being overlooked by Team India, admitting that the prolonged snub left him deeply disappointed despite delivering standout performances in domestic cricket. Speaking after his impressive showing in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, Kishan acknowledged that not being considered for national selection was emotionally challenging, but said the experience also strengthened his resolve.
Kishan, who was once seen as a regular across formats for India, has been out of the national setup for an extended period. Despite his explosive batting style and previous international success, the left-hander found himself on the sidelines while other wicketkeeper-batters were preferred. Reflecting on the phase, Kishan said it was difficult to process the exclusion, especially after putting in consistent performances.
The Jharkhand cricketer revealed that there were moments when self-doubt crept in, particularly when strong domestic performances did not translate into a recall. He admitted that it “felt quite bad” to be ignored, but emphasized that he never allowed frustration to affect his preparation or commitment to the game.
Kishan’s recent performances in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy have once again brought him into the spotlight. Displaying power, confidence, and maturity, he played several match-winning knocks and emerged as one of the standout batters of the tournament. His ability to dominate bowlers while maintaining a healthy strike rate impressed fans and experts alike.
Observers noted that Kishan appeared more composed and focused during the tournament, suggesting personal growth during his time away from international cricket. Rather than chasing flashy shots, he showed adaptability based on match situations, a quality often demanded at the highest level.
Addressing questions about whether he felt the snub was unfair, Kishan struck a balanced tone. He acknowledged that selection is not entirely in a player’s control and said he respects the team management’s decisions. At the same time, he maintained that his job as a professional cricketer is to keep scoring runs and improving his game.
The wicketkeeper-batter also highlighted the importance of domestic cricket in keeping players grounded. He said the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy gave him an opportunity to reconnect with the basics and enjoy the game without the pressure of expectations that come with international cricket.
Kishan’s comments have resonated with fans, many of whom believe he deserves another opportunity in the national side. Social media reactions following his interview reflected widespread support, with supporters praising his honesty and perseverance.
Former cricketers have also weighed in, suggesting that Kishan’s performances make a strong case for reconsideration. Some experts believe that his aggressive batting style and ability to change the course of a game in limited overs cricket remain valuable assets for India.
The competition for places in the Indian team, however, remains intense. With multiple wicketkeeper-batters vying for limited spots, selectors face difficult choices. Kishan acknowledged this reality, stating that he understands the depth of talent in Indian cricket and is focused on controlling what he can.
He also stressed the importance of mental strength during periods of exclusion. According to Kishan, staying motivated without external validation is one of the toughest challenges for any athlete. He credited his family, coaches, and teammates for helping him maintain a positive mindset.
As India continues to build towards future ICC tournaments, Kishan’s resurgence has added an intriguing dimension to the selection debate. His recent performances have reminded everyone of his potential and hunger to represent the country again.
For now, Ishan Kishan remains focused on his cricket, letting his bat do the talking. While the disappointment of being overlooked still lingers, his determination suggests that he is far from giving up. If performances remain consistent, a return to the Indian squad may not be too far away.
Summary
Ishan Kishan admitted he felt hurt by his prolonged Team India exclusion but said strong performances in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy have renewed his confidence and determination to make a comeback.