Guwahati, Jan 25 (NationPress) Ishan Kishan, who recently returned to international cricket after a hiatus of over two years, expressed that his primary objective is to enjoy his game, revert to basics, and concentrate on what truly matters as he gears up for the T20 World Cup next month.

The wicketkeeper-batter showcased an impressive performance in the second T20I against New Zealand in Raipur, scoring a remarkable 76 runs off just 32 balls during India's chase of 209 runs, leading the team to a swift victory by seven wickets in under 16 overs.

“I aimed to enter the game with a calm demeanor, observe each ball closely, and execute the necessary cricketing shots,” Kishan said as he reflected on his innings from the previous match before the third T20I.

Despite India losing two quick wickets early on, Kishan and captain Suryakumar Yadav stepped in earlier than anticipated to stabilize the innings. On his mindset when the team was at 6/2, he remarked, “When chasing a target of 209, it’s crucial to maximize runs during the powerplay. My focus was on not losing my wicket through reckless shots while still playing strategically good shots. I found it easier to play in the middle due to the bowling style, so I aimed to settle in and score as many runs as possible.”

At 27 years of age, Kishan had to wait a considerable time to receive another call-up to the Indian squad. His dedication to his state team, Jharkhand, was evident through his performance in 71 domestic matches, including leading them to victory in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy last year. His relentless effort was rewarded with his selection for the ongoing New Zealand series and the upcoming T20 World Cup, commencing on February 7.

“I questioned whether I could replicate my past performances. Achieving this again would boost my confidence. My focus is on enjoying the game, staying present, and taking one day or game at a time to demonstrate a commendable performance. The essence of my approach is to relish cricket, return to fundamentals, and prioritize what’s truly significant,” Kishan elaborated when discussing his approach against New Zealand.

When asked about his emotions during his return and any pressure he felt, Kishan mentioned, “After reflecting on everything, I noticed that my reactions haven’t drastically changed. I don’t experience overwhelming happiness or sadness. Being present is what matters, especially with the World Cup approaching. My primary concern is about securing the trophy and identifying areas for improvement.”