Chennai, September 7: Ishan Kishan believes taking charge of Jharkhand in 2024 played a major role in his personal and professional growth, helping him develop into a more responsible cricketer and leader.
Kishan took up the leadership role after losing his BCCI central contract in late 2023. His return to domestic cricket with Jharkhand marked an important phase in his career, and the wicketkeeper-batter has continued to lead the side whenever available.
Now back in the India setup in white-ball cricket, Kishan says captaincy has changed his approach to the game and made him more accountable for his performances.
"You have to take responsibility. If you don't take it now, when will you? It's not like I am a 22-year-old and have just broken into
the team. When we were very young, we used to rely on our senior players to score runs and thought we would just support them," Kishan said.
"But now, being an established part of the squad, I feel it is crucial that I take up the primary role of scoring runs and making sure the team's total climbs because of me," he added.
Leading East Zone in the Duleep Trophy final, Kishan produced a magnificent 270 to help his team post 708 all out in their first innings against South Zone.
Reflecting on his journey, he said the responsibility of captaincy had brought about a significant change in his mindset.
"Going through this whole process leads to immense personal growth, and while you might not realise it immediately, your mindset shifts completely, and you become much calmer about things," he said.
Kishan also stressed that being captain requires constant awareness and responsibility towards teammates, rather than focusing solely on individual performances.
"There are so many small things we often overlook in our daily routines-like just showing up, batting in the nets, and leaving. You don't look at your players or try to help them figure out how they can get better. But when you are the captain, it becomes your duty to help them, because if your teammates are improving, ultimately you will achieve the team's goals," he said.
The left-hander also credited his double-century to his focus on the team's needs, saying he prioritised temperament and shot selection over attacking cricket to help East Zone post a big total.
