Ishan Kishan captained East Zone during the Duleep Trophy 2026, leading his side to a commanding victory over North East Zone in Bengaluru on Tuesday, August 25. East Zone defeated North East Zone by innings and 210 runs in the quarterfinal stage of the tournament, showcasing strong performance in the red-ball format.
Speaking about his commitment to Test cricket, Kishan expressed his genuine enthusiasm for the longer format despite limited opportunities at the international level. Kishan has played only two Tests for India, both in the West Indies in 2023, and has not added to that tally since then.
“One hundred per cent. Anyone who has played Tests would love this format. We know its importance and how it helps one get better. People don’t believe me, but I really do enjoy red-ball cricket,” Kishan told the media when asked whether he wants to play Test cricket for India once again.
What draws Kishan to Test cricket
Kishan’s Test opportunities have been constrained by the established positions held by other wicketkeepers in India’s squad. Rishabh Pant and Dhruv Jurel have cemented places in India’s Test XI, while India opted for KL Rahul as wicketkeeper for the South Africa series later in 2023. Despite these constraints, Kishan continues to demonstrate his commitment to red-ball cricket through domestic performances and his leadership role in the Duleep Trophy.
The wicketkeeper elaborated on what draws him to the red-ball game and the unique challenges it presents. Kishan explained the specific aspects of Test cricket that appeal to him as a player and competitor, highlighting the dynamic nature of the format.
“I love this game (red ball). I enjoy it because when you are in the middle, the ball is moving, players are coming at you, there is banter going on with the other team,” Kishan said.
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Kishan’s domestic performances and captaincy in the Duleep Trophy underscored his continued investment in red-ball cricket. His leadership of East Zone to a commanding victory demonstrated his ability to perform and inspire in the longer format, reinforcing his stated passion for Test cricket despite the limited international opportunities available to him. While he scored just four runs from nine balls, batting at No. 6, the southpaw would want to bounce back strongly in the semi-final clash against Central Zone later this week.
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