India wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan has made a roaring comeback to domestic cricket, smashing a scintillating 173 runs against Tamil Nadu in Jharkhand’s Ranji Trophy 2025–26 opener at the Sri Ramakrishna College of Arts and Science Ground in Coimbatore.
Although he fell short of a double century, the innings has reignited talks about his potential return to India’s Test squad for the upcoming home series against South Africa.
Leading Jharkhand from the front, Ishan arrived at the crease when his team was struggling at 79 for 3, and later saw them slip to 157 for 6. Displaying maturity and resilience, he anchored the innings with a composed knock that included his ninth First-Class century, guiding his side to 307 for 6 at stumps on Day 1. His partnership with Sahil Raj turned the game around, as the duo added a remarkable 314 runs for the seventh wicket before Ishan was dismissed by RS Ambrish early on Day 2.
Reminder to selectors before South Africa Tests
Kishan’s commanding performance is seen as a strong message to the Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee, reminding them of his red-ball potential. The 26-year-old made his Test debut in 2023 against the West Indies, scoring 78 runs and showing promise with both bat and gloves.
He was later included in the 2024 South Africa tour as the primary wicketkeeper in Rishabh Pant’s absence but took a mental health break, stepping away from cricket for a few months. Since then, he has been out of the Test setup amid contract and fitness discussions.
Recently, Kishan was in contention for a Test call-up during the England series, but an injury ruled him out, leading to N Jagadeesan’s selection instead. Agarkar had clarified earlier this month that Kishan “is a very good player” but needs to play more cricket and “show consistent performances” before being reconsidered for national selection.
South Africa Tests on the horizon
India’s Test series against South Africa begins on November 14, with the squad announcement expected in early November. While Rishabh Pant is likely to reclaim the first-choice wicketkeeper slot following his full recovery, Dhruv Jurel—who impressed with a century against West Indies—remains a strong backup option.
However, if Ishan Kishan continues his current form in domestic cricket, he could force the selectors to reopen the door for a Test comeback. His recent innings is not just a personal statement—it’s a reminder that his hunger for red-ball cricket is far from over.
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