Image Source: Instagram
[Saba Sports News] Recently, fans got a sneak peek of Ishan Kishan alongside Hardik Pandya in a video where the Mumbai Indians pair are seen diligently working out in the gym.
Having maintained a low profile and shared updates sporadically on social media over the past few months, Kishan has been on a hiatus for undisclosed reasons since December. His last professional game was on November 28, 2023, leading to his absence from several key matches for India this year.
Earlier in the month, he met up with Mumbai Indians’ captain Hardik Pandya in Baroda, where they have been rigorously training in the gym and practicing for the upcoming IPL 2024 season. Pandya is in the midst of recovering from an ankle injury incurred during the World Cup.
This Thursday evening, Kishan shared a video from their gym session, showcasing his ability to squat approximately 130 kgs—a feat he appears to have achieved. The video elicited various responses from fans, with some extending their good wishes for the duo’s return, while others, particularly Rohit Sharma’s supporters, resorted to trolling.
In the meantime, the BCCI has issued a caution to centrally-contracted players like Kishan who missed the Ranji Trophy, highlighting the serious consequences of bypassing domestic cricket. Jay Shah, in an email to the players, expressed concern over a growing trend where some cricketers seem to favor IPL commitments over domestic competitions.
He emphasized that domestic cricket is the bedrock of Indian cricket and is pivotal in the selection process for representing India, stressing the severe repercussions that could result from neglecting this crucial aspect of the sport.
“There is a trend that has started to emerge and is a cause for concern. Some players have begun prioritising the IPL over domestic cricket, a shift that was not anticipated. Domestic cricket has always been the foundation upon which Indian cricket stands, and it has never been undervalued in our vision for the sport.” “Our vision for Indian cricket has been clear from the outset – every cricketer aspiring to play for India must prove themselves in domestic cricket. Performance in domestic tournaments remains a critical yardstick for selection, and non-participation in domestic cricket will carry severe implications.”