Manipur, batting first, managed to put up a competitive total of 253/7 in their 50 overs. However, the chase was anything but competitive as Kishan took the attack to the bowlers from the get-go. Opening the innings, he reached his century in a mere 64 deliveries, setting the tone for Jharkhand’s chase. His strike rate of 171.79 was a testament to his destructive form, making a strong case for his inclusion in the Indian team for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy in February-March 2025.
This wasn’t just another century for Kishan; it was a statement. Having last played for India during the 2023 ODI World Cup, Kishan has been out of the national setup, focusing on domestic cricket to regain his form. His performance in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, known for being a significant platform for showcasing talent, might just be what he needed to catch the selectors’ eye. His previous record includes one century and seven half-centuries in 27 ODIs, maintaining an average of 42.40 and a strike rate of 102.19, showcasing his consistency and potential.
With the selectors closely monitoring performances in domestic tournaments like the Vijay Hazare Trophy, Kishan’s knock against Manipur has certainly put him back on the radar. The competition for spots in India’s limited-overs setup is fierce, but performances like these are hard to ignore. His ability to anchor the innings while also playing aggressively positions him as a strong contender for India’s white-ball teams.