Ishan Kishan hinted at a significant tactical shift following Sunrisers Hyderabad’s dominant 57 run win over Rajasthan Royals, suggesting he could continue to give up wicketkeeping duties to focus more on captaincy in IPL 2026.
Kishan led from the front with a blistering 91 off 44 balls, helping SRH post a commanding 216 for 6 after early setbacks. With Abhishek Sharma dismissed for a duck and Travis Head falling for 18, the responsibility fell on the captain to steady the innings. Kishan responded with a measured start before accelerating, striking eight fours and six sixes to take the game away from Rajasthan.
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“We have been scoring 200 plus consistently, so the belief was there,” Kishan said after the match. “The idea was to take the game deep and allow players like Abhishek to play freely because if he gets going, he can take the total to 260 or more.”
BACKING YOUTH DELIVERS RESULTS
The match also marked a turning point in SRH’s bowling approach, with Kishan backing debutants Praful Hinge and Sakib Hussain ahead of experienced options. The move paid immediate dividends as Rajasthan collapsed to 9 for 5 in the first three overs while chasing 217.
“You have to look at how hungry your young bowlers are,” Kishan said. “They have been working throughout the season with our coaches and learning from experienced players. They were ready, and we felt it was the right time to give them a chance, especially at home.”
The young pacers justified that faith, sharing eight wickets between them as SRH bundled out Rajasthan for 159 in 19 overs despite a late fightback.
CAPTAINCY TAKES PRIORITY
Kishan’s decision to step away from wicketkeeping duties was another notable tactical call. He revealed that the move was aimed at improving on-field communication and execution.
“As a captain, I felt there was some miscommunication at times,” he explained. “When you are keeping, you do not always get enough time to talk to the bowlers about plans.”
By staying closer to the action, Kishan was able to guide his bowlers more effectively and adjust field settings in real time.
“It is better to be there, discuss what they are going to bowl and set the field accordingly. That was the plan and I think it worked well,” he said, adding that the approach could continue going forward.
With both bat and tactical decisions clicking, Kishan’s evolving leadership could prove key for SRH as they look to build momentum in the tournament.
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