(PTI Photo)
As the Indian cricket team prepares for an exciting home season, all-rounder R Sai Kishore has declared his readiness for international cricket following a brief injury layoff.
The 27-year-old, who previously represented India in the 2023 Asian Games and helped secure a gold medal, has been making waves on the domestic circuit. He played a pivotal role in leading the Tamil Nadu team to the Ranji Trophy semi-final, establishing himself as one of the standout bowlers.
Although Tamil Nadu fell short to Mumbai, the eventual champions, R Sai Kishore has secured the second spot in the season’s wicket-taking charts, amassing 53 wickets across nine matches.
In an interview with The New Indian Express, Kishore expressed his readiness to advance to the next level and represent the nation in Test cricket. He also indicated a strong desire to share the field with veteran cricketer and CSK star Ravindra Jadeja, seeing it as a valuable opportunity for learning and growth.
“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. Jadeja is there, I have never played alongside him. I have been with him in CSK, but never played together in red-ball format. So, it will be a good learning experience in terms of what he does. In saying that, I feel confident. So, I am ready more than ever,” he said
India’s forthcoming major challenge is their two-match Test series against Bangladesh, scheduled to start on September 19. Although the Board of Control for Cricket in India has yet to announce the squad, it’s possible that R Sai Kishore may not be included. This is due to the continued preference for established spinners like Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja, along with the left-arm wrist spinner.
Kuldeep Yadav, who had an impressive performance in the 2024 Test series against England by taking 19 wickets in four matches, is the next in line.
Nevertheless, if the selectors decide to rest Ravindra Jadeja due to his recurring injuries, R Sai Kishore could emerge as a strong candidate for inclusion. He might even be considered for an all-rounder role. Gaining experience alongside prominent players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and R Ashwin could greatly benefit Kishore’s development in the long term.
