Ishan Kishan’s Duleep Trophy century revives Test hopes

Ishan Kishan has once again entered the conversation for a potential return to India ’s Test squad after producing a commanding century in the Duleep Trophy final. Leading East Zone, Kishan remained unbeaten on 111 on the opening day at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. His innings featured 14 fours and two sixes and came at a crucial time as East Zone dominated proceedings against South Zone. Kishan found excellent support from Kumar Kushagra, who was unbeaten on 63. The pair added 144 runs without losing their wickets for the fifth wicket, helping East Zone reach 385 for four in 79 overs by the close of play. The left-hander initially played patiently, reaching his half-century from 71 deliveries. He then accelerated during the final session, taking advantage of an ineffective South Zone bowling attack. Kishan attacked both the pace and spin options, quickly moving from his first fifty to his century. His latest performance could strengthen his case for a Test comeback, particularly after his impressive red-ball displays in England last year. Kishan had scored 87 and 77 for Nottinghamshire on his County Championship debut after representing India A. Also Read: 'India should not have closed door': Former coach questions Mohammed Shami’s exclusion He was subsequently considered as a replacement for Rishabh Pant during India’s Test series in England when Pant suffered an injury. However, Kishan stayed back to continue his rehabilitation, with N Jagadeesan eventually being selected instead. The selectors later retained their faith in Jagadeesan for the home Test series against the West Indies after Pant remained unavailable, although he did not get an opportunity to play. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar had previously indicated that Kishan needed to play more cricket and produce consistent performances before being considered again for Test selection. Kishan’s red-ball record last season was limited to three Ranji Trophy innings, in which he accumulated 246 runs at an average of 82, including a memorable 173. Now, with a century at the start of the new red-ball season, Kishan has delivered exactly the kind of performance that could put him back on the selectors’ radar. Adding significance to the occasion, Agarkar was present in the stands at Chepauk to witness the innings. While one century is unlikely to guarantee an immediate Test recall, Kishan has undoubtedly strengthened his claim. With India’s upcoming assignments against New Zealand and Australia and the race for the World Test Championship final continuing, consistent performances in domestic red-ball cricket could give the Jharkhand wicketkeeper-batter another opportunity to push for a place in the Test side.