Ahmedabad, March 9 (NationPress) Indian wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan has dedicated his team's triumph in the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup to his late cousin sister. Tragically, she, along with his brother-in-law, lost their lives in a car accident just a day before the final held at the Narendra Modi Stadium.

During the final match, Kishan scored 54 runs, significantly contributing to India's impressive 96-run victory over New Zealand, marking the nation’s third T20 World Cup title. “Honestly, prior to the game, I lost my cousin sister in a tragic accident. I played for her. I spoke with Hardik Bhai, who advised me to prioritize the team's success. I dedicate this win to her, especially since it coincided with Women’s Day, making it even more meaningful,” Kishan expressed during a media interaction.

Kishan's journey back to the national team was a testament to his resilience after being out of the squad for nearly two years. He emerged as India's second-highest run-scorer in the tournament, following Sanju Samson. Reflecting on his comeback, Kishan cited Virat Kohli as an inspiration.

“Over these two years, I've learned that the key is to focus on your job and not dwell on the outcomes. The skills remain constant. If I scored 200 runs before, the skills I possess now are the same. What truly matters is your mindset and your hunger to succeed,” he elaborated.

“By eliminating the fear of failure and doubt, I focus on the present moment. I've learned not to overthink; whether my name appears in the team or not is beyond my control. If I fixate on that, it only leads to disappointment,” he added.

Kishan reminisced about the moment captain Suryakumar Yadav reached out before the squad announcement. “When Surya Bhai called, I thought it was about the World Cup. He asked, ‘Will you help us win the World Cup?’ I responded, ‘Will you trust me?’ and assured him, ‘I will do it.’”

His remarkable revival from being sidelined in 2023 to leading Jharkhand to victory in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy in 2025, and ultimately returning to the national side in exceptional form, culminated in his participation in all matches of the marquee event and lifting the trophy.

Kishan concluded by sharing how significant the World Cup victory is for him and his family. “I entered with the mindset that even if I got out for zero, our goal was to win the World Cup. This victory is immensely important to me. More than my own feelings, my family is now at ease. As athletes, we navigate various phases.”

“We understand our reality, our abilities, and how to adapt. However, the ones who suffer are often our family members. We work diligently for their happiness, aiming to return to the team swiftly. Ultimately, their joy is paramount for us.”