New Delhi: Team India star Ishan Kishan revealed how his time away from the Indian team helped him answer all the questions about himself as a player. Kishan opened up on the tough phase during the post-match presentation after his match-winning knock for India in the 2nd T20I against New Zealand in Raipur on Friday.
Kishan smashed a brilliant knock of 76 runs off just 32 balls to help India beat New Zealand by 7 wickets and go 2-0 up in the five-match series. It was a terrific knock from the explosive left-hander, who had failed to get going in the series opener against the Kiwis.
Kishan made his comeback for India after over two years in the first T20I against New Zealand earlier this week. He last played for India in a T20I against Australia in November 2023.
Kishan earned his spot back in India’s T20I squad after his stellar show for Jharkhand in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) 2025.
Kishan smashed 517 runs in 10 innings in SMAT 2025 at an exceptional average of 57.44 and a strike rate of over 197. He finished the tournament as the highest run-getter while also leading Jharkhand to glory. He also notched up a ton in the final against Haryana to help Jharkhand clinch the SMAT 2025 title.
On Friday, Kishan was asked about his time away from the Indian team after his sensational 32-ball 76 against New Zealand in the 2nd T20I in Raipur. The left-hand batter revealed how he utilised his time to find answers to questions about himself.
“I just asked myself one question. Can I do it again or no, I had a clear answer in my head. I feel I can bat throughout the innings and play good shots. I just needed runs somewhere to answer my questions. I was just looking to get runs and even if I get out, I was looking to play well,” said Kishan.