Ishan Kishan, who has been out of international cricket in 2024 and was excluded from the BCCI's central contracts due to his refusal to participate in domestic cricket, might have a chance to return to the Indian squad. With no international fixtures scheduled for India until the two-Test series against Bangladesh starting September 18, the BCCI plans to involve players in the Duleep Trophy to keep them in shape.
The upcoming Duleep Trophy, which will be played in Andhra Pradesh, will feature a new format with four teams—India A, B, C, and D—selected by the national selection committee led by Ajit Agarkar. This tournament offers Kishan an opportunity to showcase his skills and re-enter the national setup.
Head coach Gautam Gambhir and several senior players, including Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ravindra Jadeja, and R Ashwin, are recommended to participate. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have been given the option to play, while Jasprit Bumrah will be rested to manage his workload.
According to Cricbuzz, Kishan is expected to be included in the Duleep Trophy, indicating he is still on the selectors' radar. Strong performances in the tournament could lead to his return to the Indian squad.
The Duleep Trophy matches are scheduled for September 5-8 and September 12-15.