Chattogram (Bangladesh): Record-breaking opener Ishan Kishan wants to let his bat do the talking as he attempts to win a place in India’s squad for next year’s ICC Cricket World Cup on home soil.
Ishan produced an outstanding audition for one of two opener berths when he smashed the world-class Bangladesh bowling attack to all parts of the ground helping himself to a brilliant 210 in the third and final ODI in here on Saturday.
The 24-year-old broke a host of records in the process as he posted the equal fifth highest score in the history of Men’s ODI cricket, but none more impressive than claiming Chris Gayle’s record and becoming the fastest double centurion ever in 50-over cricket when reaching 200 in just 126 deliveries.
But Kishan remained coy after India’s commanding 227-run victory, claiming he still has plenty of work to do if he wants to make sure he remains in the XI for next year’s 50-over World Cup in India.
“I don’t know, I don’t think these things,” ICC quoted Kishan as saying. “All I can do is perform when I get a chance. I don’t want to talk.
“I want to let my bat do the talking. Whether there is a place for me or not.”
India are well stocked when it comes to openers in ODI cricket, with skipper Rohit Sharma and experienced duo Shikhar Dhawan and KL Rahul all capable of batting in the top order.
That means Ishan may have to find a different way into India’s strong batting order and the confident left-hander knows he has time on his side given he has now played just 10 ODI matches for his country.
“Batting position, I think, other players also come through having batted at different positions. So being a young player, I can’t complain and demand that you must bat me at this particular position,” Ishan said.
“At this level, it’s about making use of the opportunities that are provided to you. That’s how big players are made.
“(Coach) Rahul Dravid was very happy. He also knows that he isn’t able to give a chance to everyone who wants to play, who wants to do well. Because we already have such a good side.”
And while most batters would have been pleased to reach the lofty heights that Ishan managed and post a score in excess of 200, the stylish batter admitted he left a few runs out there when he was dismissed in the 36th over.
“I still feel when I got out, 15 overs were left and I could have scored 300 also,” Kishan told the host broadcaster during the innings break.
“The wicket was too good to bat on. My intent was very clear: if the ball is there, I’ll go for it.”
