Ishan Kishan, who hasn't played for India in any format in 2024 and was excluded from the BCCI's central contracts reportedly due to his refusal to participate in domestic cricket, may have a chance to return to the national setup. With no international fixtures for Team India until the two-Test series against Bangladesh starting on September 18, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has devised a plan to keep the players in shape by involving them in the Duleep Trophy.
The Duleep Trophy, set to be held in Andhra Pradesh, will have its first round played at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bangalore before the Bangladesh series. This competition could also serve as a platform for players like Ishan Kishan, who have been out of favour, to showcase their skills and re-enter Team India's plans.
Unlike previous editions, the Duleep Trophy will no longer follow a zonal format but will instead feature four teams - India A, B, C, and D. These teams will be selected by the national selection committee, currently led by Ajit Agarkar.
With new head coach Gautam Gambhir involved in the process, several senior India players, including Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ravindra Jadeja, and R Ashwin, have been recommended to participate in the 2024-25 Duleep Trophy. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have been given the option to play, while Jasprit Bumrah will be rested to manage his workload.
According to a Cricbuzz report, Kishan is expected to be called up for the Duleep Trophy, signalling that he remains in the selectors' plans. Strong performances in the Duleep Trophy could pave the way for Kishan’s return to the Indian squad.
The Duleep Trophy matches are scheduled to take place from September 5-8 and September 12-15.