Ishan Kishan’s Stunning Comeback Hundred Energizes India C in Duleep Trophy
In a remarkable display of skill and resilience, Ishan Kishan’s marked his return to first-class cricket with a scintillating 111 off 126 balls, playing a pivotal role in India C’s commanding performance on the opening day of their second-round Duleep Trophy match in Anantapur. His unbeaten knock was instrumental in India C’s impressive score of 357 for 5 after 79 overs.
Kishan’s inclusion in the squad came as a late change. Originally set to play for India D, he was drafted into India C only on the eve of the match, following a groin injury that kept him out of the first round. Despite the late switch and a 200-kilometer dash from Bengaluru, Kishan displayed no signs of rust. His aggressive innings included 14 boundaries and three sixes, reflecting his readiness and adaptability.
The highlight of Kishan’s innings
was a crucial 189-run partnership with B Indrajith, who contributed 78 runs. This stand anchored India C’s innings and set a solid foundation for their batting performance. Kishan’s century is noteworthy as it marks his return to red-ball cricket since his Test debut in the Caribbean in July 2023. This innings follows a strong performance in the pre-season Buchi Babu Invitational, where he had also notched up a hundred against Madhya Pradesh XI.
India C faced some bowling resistance with Mukesh Kumar taking three wickets and Navdeep Saini along with Rahul Chahar picking one each. Despite these challenges, India C’s prospects remain buoyant, especially with the encouraging return of captain Ruturaj Gaikwad, who, after a brief injury scare, contributed a valuable 46 not out.
B Sai Sudharsan and Rajat Patidar also had notable starts but couldn’t convert them into bigger scores, making 43 and 40, respectively. As the match progresses, India C will look to build on this solid start and secure a commanding position in the Duleep Trophy.