Ishan Kishan's Test hopes hindered by India's crowded lineup, says Srikkanth

'Unfortunately, there isn't a slot': Ex-India captain's blunt verdict on Ishan Kishan

Former India captain and ex-chief selector Krishnamachari Srikkanth has expressed admiration for Ishan Kishan's abilities, describing him as an all-format player capable of excelling in Test cricket. However, Srikkanth believes the wicketkeeper-batter currently finds himself sidelined in the longest format due to India's crowded red-ball setup.

Kishan's resurgence in Indian cricket has been remarkable. After nearly two years out of the national team, he forced his way back into India's T20I squad ahead of the World Cup and marked his ODI return with a stunning century against Afghanistan. Despite his recent success in white-ball cricket, Srikkanth feels Kishan has the skills to thrive in Test cricket as well. "I am a great fan of Ishan Kishan. From nowhere he has made a comeback and he's just doing brilliantly. I like his game," Srikkanth said, highlighting Kishan's stroke play, timing, power, and overall versatility.

Kishan's journey back into the national side has been anything but smooth. After losing his central contract in 2024 due to concerns over his domestic cricket participation, he returned to the grind, working on his game and competing in tournaments like the Buchi Babu Trophy. Srikkanth credited the BCCI's decision to push Kishan back into domestic cricket as a turning point in his career. "BCCI did a wise thing by asking him to go play domestic cricket, which has helped him a lot," he said. Kishan also captained Jharkhand to a Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy triumph during this period.

While discussing India's selection dynamics, Srikkanth also pointed to Yashasvi Jaiswal as another player who has struggled to secure consistent opportunities in white-ball cricket despite proving his credentials across formats. Jaiswal, who has scored centuries in major Test-playing nations like England and Australia, has largely been utilized in Test cricket. Srikkanth described him as an extraordinary all-format cricketer who has been unlucky to miss out on regular chances in shorter formats due to intense competition at the top of the order. "That's the problem in the opening slot especially. It goes like a merry-go-round," Srikkanth remarked, highlighting the challenges of breaking into India's crowded lineup.

The former selector also expressed concern over a lack of continuity in team selections, suggesting that strong performances are sometimes forgotten due to the relentless international calendar. "Unfortunately, what is happening is, some players get a chance and then sometimes they are forgotten also, which should not happen. There should be continuity," he said.

Despite these concerns, Srikkanth praised the current selection panel, led by chairman Ajit Agarkar, for its efforts but urged the committee to provide more opportunities to deserving domestic performers. He emphasized the importance of Test cricket as the ultimate format and suggested that adjustments might be needed to accommodate talent in the red-ball setup. "Test cricket is the ultimate format for any cricketer. So, in Test cricket, probably we will have to make some adjustments," Srikkanth concluded.