India's flamboyant wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan has declared himself a "changed man" as he gears up to lead India's batting charge in the 2026 ICC
Men's T20 World Cup, highlighting a shift in mindset and maturity since earlier in his career.
The 26-year-old, who has battled inconsistency in international T20s but lit up domestic cricket, stressed that focused preparation and mental growth have been key to his recent resurgence.
A New Mindset for Ishan Kishan
Kishan said, "I'm a changed man now," insisting that his approach to the game and ability to handle high-pressure situations have improved significantly - a shift that has helped him cement his place in the defending champions' squad.
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"I think I'm a changed man now, to be honest. I don't get into it too much, but I do enjoy jokes and everything. Earlier I used to do it 24x7, but now it's just 2-3 hours in a day. I am just focusing more on batting and my wicket-keeping, which is going to help the team and myself. Everything else is secondary, so I am not just always joking, especially under Gauti bhai (coach Gautam Gambhir)," he said.
Why This Matters for India's Campaign
India's momentum building towards the tournament has been evident. In matches of this World Cup Campaign, Kishan continued his red-hot form, exemplified by his blistering 53 off 20 balls against South Africa in the warmups alongside a rapid 61 in a commanding 93-run win over Namibia - a knock that has surely sealed his spot for the upcoming matches.
On his approach in constructing a T20 innings, he explained: "I take singles as well and do defend the good balls. I'm just trying to be calm on the pitch. Sometimes you get excited and play those shots when you're playing international cricket. I'm just trying to cut those moments off in my life. "
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Since returning to the international fold for the T20I series against New Zealand last month, Ishan Kishan has crafted a compelling comeback arc. After bludgeoning the Kiwi attack to all parts to help India romp to a 4-1 series victory and force his way into the first-choice XI, he is now lighting up the T20 World Cup as well.
