Duleep Trophy: R Sai Kishore Vows Readiness for Test Cricket, Challenges Selectors Ahead of Bangladesh Series
News Mania Desk/Agnibeena Ghosh/20th August 2024
The Duleep Trophy, commencing on September 5 in Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh, and at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, marks the start of India’s red-ball cricket season. This prestigious domestic tournament will feature a blend of seasoned Indian cricketers and promising young talents. As the tournament approaches, it has stirred excitement, especially among players eager to make their mark for selection in the forthcoming Test series against Bangladesh.
Among those eyeing a place in the Indian Test squad is R Sai Kishore, a prominent spinner for the Tamil Nadu state team. Kishore recently made headlines with his bold declaration that he is ready to step into Test cricket. This statement comes as a challenge to Ajit Agarkar’s selection committee, which is tasked with choosing the squad for the upcoming series.
Kishore, who suffered an unusual golf-related injury during the IPL 2024 season, had a remarkable performance just before the injury, taking 4 wickets for 33 runs against Punjab Kings. Despite not being in peak form, he made a comeback in the Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL), initially participating as a batter and later in the ongoing Buchi Babu Invitational Tournament.
With the Duleep Trophy on the horizon, Kishore will play for Team B, joining other spinners like Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, and Rahul Chahar. In a recent interview with The New Indian Express, Kishore expressed his confidence and readiness for Test cricket. He emphasized his rigorous pre-season training, which he believes has significantly prepared him for high-level competition.
Kishore’s confidence stems from a recent intensive training regimen, which he asserts has been more rigorous than in previous years. He noted that while the IPL season often prioritizes recovery over training, his 15-20 day break after the TNPL allowed him to focus intensely on his preparation. “I feel I am one of the best spinners in the country. Put me in a Test match, I am ready. So, I am not worried too much,” Kishore asserted.
His readiness and confidence are notable as he prepares to share a field with experienced players like Ravindra Jadeja. Although he has been a part of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) alongside Jadeja, they have yet to play together in a red-ball format. Kishore views this as a valuable opportunity for learning and growth. “I have never played alongside Jadeja in a red-ball format, but it will be a good learning experience to see what he does,” he remarked.
The Duleep Trophy is expected to be crucial in determining the squad for the Test series against Bangladesh, which begins on September 19. Kishore’s performance in this tournament could significantly influence his chances of making the final squad. With selectors closely monitoring the tournament, Kishore’s bold statements and confident demeanor reflect his determination to secure a place in the national team.
As the Duleep Trophy unfolds, all eyes will be on players like Kishore, whose performances could play a pivotal role in shaping India’s Test team for the upcoming series.
