Shreyas Iyer, Ishan Kishan's T20 WC selection in danger; India comeback possible on this condition - Reports

Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer have become the hot soup in Indian cricket. The duo were terminated from the BCCI’s annual contract for the upcoming season. This came after both players rejected to play in the domestic circuit despite warnings by the governing body.

However, troubles for Ishan Kishan and Shreays Iyed don’t stop there. As per the reports in Indian Express, it is learned that both the batters are also in line for missing the T20 World Cup 2024, set to be played in the United States of America and the Caribbean in June.

Shreyas Iyer and Ishan Kishan facing termination from BCCI’s annual contract will have an impact on their immediate future with the national team. The duo were an integral part of the Indian team in the year 2023 but things changed drastically for them within the span of a few days.

With all the other youngsters too grabbing their opportunities with both hands, it’s fair to say that it will be tough for Shreyas Iyer and Ishan Kishan to make a comeback to the team. Therefore it won’t be a surprise if the duo end up missing a place for the T20 World Cup 2024.

The reports also claimed that doors are not closed for Shreyas Iyer and Ishan Kishan to make a return to the national team. The duo won’t be considered for the contract even if they return to the team later this year and undergo the pro-rata criteria (minimum of 3 Tests 8 ODIs or 10 T20Is within the contract cycle). It is learned that they will be paid only the match fee depending upon the format.

The reports also suggested that Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer will be considered for the national selection only when they feature in domestic cricket. A source close to the BCCI confirmed the development. He stated:

“Ishan was granted a break that he sought. However, he hasn’t reported to the NCA or the state unit but continues to train alone. Under the circumstances, there was no chance for the BCCI to offer a central contract.

“Similarly with Shreyas, we went by the medical reports. The door is still open for them provided they play domestic cricket regularly.”

Chin-up Shreyas Iyer and Ishan Kishan – Ravi Shastri’s messages to the duo on contract termination

As Shreyas Iyer and Ishan Kishan were terminated from the BCCI’s annual contract, former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri supported both players. He urged the batters to chin up and make a strong comeback after the tough time they are going through.

Ravi Shastri said that he does not doubt that Shreyas Iyer and Ishan Kishan will overcome his challenge. He also pointed out the things that the duo has done for Indian cricket, saying that their achievements speak volumes.

“In the game of cricket, comebacks define the spirit. Chin-up, @ShreyasIyer15 and @ishankishan51! Dig deep, face challenges, and come back even stronger. Your past achievements speak volumes, and I have no doubt you’ll conquer once again.”

In the game of cricket, comebacks define the spirit. Chin-up, @ShreyasIyer15 and @ishankishan51! Dig deep, face challenges, and come back even stronger. Your past achievements speak volumes, and I have no doubt you'll conquer once again.

— Ravi Shastri (@RaviShastriOfc) February 28, 2024