R Ashwin heaps massive praise on Ishan Kishan

In a recent match against arch-rivals Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2023, Ishan Kishan played an outstanding innings of 82 runs. This remarkable knock has garnered significant attention and demonstrated his exceptional talent for batting under pressure.

During India’s Caribbean tour, Ishan showcased not just his cricketing prowess but also his remarkable character. Renowned for his cheerful personality, Ishan’s actions off the field left the cricket fraternity in awe. Recalling the incident, Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin shared the story on his YouTube channel.

He said, “We were having dinner in a restaurant in Trinidad and Tobago, and then he came in wearing shorts, a colourful shirt and a gold chain. It was his birthday, and we wished him.” Ashwin continued, “There were about five tables, all with the Indian team and support staff, and when we were leaving to pay the bill, they informed us that Ishan Kishan has already paid the bill for all of them. So, in this day and age, to see such an unselfish guy like him is rare.”

Ishan Kishan is an extraordinary team man: R Ashwin

The spinner’s admiration didn’t stop there. Ashwin highlighted Ishan’s remarkable team spirit, even when he’s not in the playing XI.

“One more thing that does not meet with the eye is that Ishan Kishan is an extraordinary team man. He will mix positive vibes with the water he is giving to the players in the XI.”

During the West Indies series, Ashwin reminisced about another moment. Ishan Kishan, positioned behind the wicket, confidently asserted that the debutant West Indies batter was unable to pick his variations.

“I was bowling during the West Indies series, over the wicket to one of their left-handers, and I was changing to over the wicket and around the wicket frequently. So, Ishan said, “Even I can’t pick you if you keep changing the angle, he is going to be out soon”. After he got out, Ishan told me “I told you so, even I can’t pick you after keeping for so many years, how can a debutant pick you?” Ashwin added.

Ishan Kishan’s spirit seems to have a positive effect on the entire team. The 23-year-old, who made his Test debut during the tour, impressed with both his batting skills and his character. His consistent performances in the ODI series earned him the Player of the Series award.

Ishan Kishan’s journey from being a U19 sensation to an international star has been nothing short of remarkable. The camaraderie within the Indian cricket team is a crucial factor in their success, and players like Ishan Kishan, who not only excel on the field but also contribute to the team’s unity, are invaluable assets.