After India’s commanding win over Namibia, wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan has made it clear that the team is ready for the much-anticipated clash against Pakistan on February 15. With focus shifting to Pakistan’s mystery spinner Usman Tariq, Kishan stressed that India will not overthink the challenge and will instead stick to their strengths.
Speaking after the match in the press conference, Kishan said the team had already done its homework. He shares, “I think at this level, we just watch a few videos, and we get an idea of what kind of bowling is going to happen. So we are just keeping it simple. Yeah, [Erasmus] bowled pretty well today, and I think there was quite a bit of learning for us for our team as well today.” He pointed out that facing Namibia captain Gerhard Erasmus, who also bowls with a sidearm off-spin action, helped India prepare for Tariq.
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Focus on natural game
Kishan underlined that India have completed their preparation and now want to trust their instincts. “No, I think we have already done the preparation part, and now it is just time to watch the ball and play our natural game... there's nothing like you have to prepare.”
Despite discussions around Tariq’s unusual action, the Indian camp appears calm and confident. The team believes sticking to their natural style of play will be key in the high-voltage encounter.
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Changed and clear mindset for Kishan
Kishan, who smashed a 24-ball 61 against Namibia, also spoke about his personal growth. After leading Jharkhand to their first Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy title, he feels more focused than before. “I think I am a changed man now, to be honest... earlier I used to do it [joke around] 24x7, but now it is just two-three hours of it. So I am just focusing more on batting and my wicket-keeping.”
India head into the Pakistan clash in strong form, with their batters firing and confidence high. With conversations around Tariq’s action and India’s aggressive approach, the February 15 match promises to be an exciting contest.
