Thiruvananthapuram, Jan 31 (NationPress) Wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan emphasized the importance of maintaining his impressive form as he heads into the forthcoming T20 World Cup. Following a remarkable 42-ball century that contributed to India’s 46-run victory over New Zealand, securing a 4-1 series win at the Greenfield International Stadium, Kishan stated, "Honestly, not much. I felt the ball was doing a bit early on, but batting alongside Abhishek Sharma really helps. You see his intent, you understand the momentum the team needs, and then you just try to watch the ball and play accordingly. That approach worked well for me today."

“I still feel I’m not there yet. Yes, I’ve done well and I’m getting these awards, but my focus is firmly on the World Cup. That’s where the extra effort is needed. What’s important is carrying this form forward and continuing to contribute there,” Kishan remarked during the post-match presentation.

He further stated that personal achievements are secondary to the team’s objectives. “I think that’s the mindset of everyone in our team now. Even if you’re close to a milestone, it doesn’t really matter. If you start taking singles at that stage, you might feel later that you missed an opportunity to go big. So if the ball is there to hit, you have to go for it. The focus is on winning matches, not personal milestones.”

Left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh, who bagged his second five-wicket haul in T20Is, expressed satisfaction in rebounding after a tough start in which he conceded 40 runs in his first two overs.

“It was a great learning experience for me as well - to stay in the game and not dwell on past mistakes or the first spell. That was the message from the coaching staff. I just wanted to focus on the present and execute what was in front of me,” he explained.

He admitted to feeling pressure despite appearing calm on the field. “It’s just for the camera that I look calm - I’m definitely feeling the pressure as well. Lately, I’ve been conceding quite a few runs, so I’m working closely with Morne to give my best for the team. ”

“I enjoyed some of the shots Finn played. But yes, I guess we could have planned a little better according to the wicket. Chasing 250-plus, they were always going to come hard. We could have executed a bit better, but the plan was to stay in the present and just enjoy it.”

Arshdeep also revealed the team’s mindset during the huddle after the powerplay. “There’s no secret there. The talk was about body language - about giving it our all and giving ourselves the best chance to restrict them to around 180 or 190. They played really well and scored a lot of runs, but we’re happy to be on the winning side.”

Reflecting on India’s preparations for the T20 World Cup, Arshdeep stated, “Yes, pretty happy with everyone performing well individually. But a perfect team game hasn’t come yet - we haven’t clicked in all departments at the same time. That’s a good sign too, because hopefully in the World Cup, all three phases of the game can come together and we can have a perfect game.”