“I Just Needed Runs to Answer My Own Questions,” Says Ishan Kishan After Raipur Masterclass

New Delhi: India moved to a commanding 2–0 lead in the five match series against New Zealand with a convincing seven wicket win at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium in New Raipur. The chase was anchored by fluent innings from Ishan Kishan and Suryakumar Yadav, who ensured the target of 209 was reached with 28 balls to spare.
Kishan played a key role at the top of the order, scoring a composed yet aggressive 76, while Suryakumar remained unbeaten on 82. Together, the duo stitched a crucial 122 run partnership after India lost Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma early, stabilising the innings and shifting momentum firmly in the hosts’ favour.
After being named Player of the Match, Kishan struck a relaxed note, dismissing any suggestion of a special routine behind his performance. He said his focus was entirely on being in the right mental space and executing his role for the team. According to the left hander, clarity of thought and trusting shot selection were more important than any external factors.
Kishan explained that while the plan was to avoid unnecessary risks, scoring freely in the powerplay was essential while chasing a total in excess of 200. Feeling confident from the first ball, he backed his instincts and concentrated on playing percentage shots rather than forcing the pace.
The wicketkeeper batter also highlighted the impact of his recent domestic form, describing it as a phase that helped rebuild belief in his own game. He said domestic cricket allowed him to challenge himself, assess his readiness and answer personal questions about consistency and capability at the highest level.
Winning a domestic trophy further boosted his confidence, which he carried into the international arena. Reflecting on the innings, Kishan revealed that he asked himself a simple but significant question about whether he could deliver again under pressure, and the answer, he felt, came through his performance in Raipur.
For Kishan, the focus was never about milestones but about batting with freedom, contributing to the team’s cause and playing sound cricket. The result, both for him and for India, made it a deeply satisfying day.