Ishan Kishan Sets Sights on India Test Return via Red-Ball Cricket

Ishan Kishan wants a return to India’s Test team, stating that anyone who has played the format loves its unique challenges, according to an interview on August 25, 2026. The 28-year-old wicketkeeper-batter recently led East Zone to an innings and 210-run victory over North East Zone in the Duleep Trophy quarterfinals in Bengaluru, marking his first red-ball match in ten months.

Ishan Kishan Targets Test Comeback Following Duleep Trophy Return

Speaking to reporters after the quarterfinal win on August 25, 2026, Kishan expressed clear ambitions of wearing whites for India once again. When asked if he wants to be part of the Test setup, Kishan replied One hundred percent and noted that anyone with experience in Test cricket values the format for how it helps players improve.

People don’t believe me, but I really do enjoy red-ball cricket, Kishan told reporters. I love this game 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. It’s always fun to be part of it because I love that challenge.

Balancing White-Ball Success with Red-Ball Ambitions

Kishan has spent much of the year establishing himself in India’s white-ball squads, contributing to a T20 World Cup triumph earlier in the year followed by a recall to the ODI team. However, breaking back into the Test team presents a different set of obstacles. His last red-ball appearance for India came during the July 2023 tour of West Indies, after which he spent considerable time away from the national side and domestic red-ball fixtures.

Reflecting on his return to the longer format during the Duleep Trophy, Kishan admitted that switching between formats is demanding. He mentioned getting nicked out while trying to play toward third man, realizing mid-shot that he needed to adjust his mindset for a multi-day game. With India facing a busy white-ball schedule ahead, the Duleep Trophy may serve as his only red-ball appearance until early 2027.

Competition for the Wicketkeeper Slot

The path to India’s Test XI is heavily contested, with Rishabh Pant and Dhruv Jurel currently holding down the wicketkeeper responsibilities. Kishan acknowledged their strong form, stating that both players are continuously scoring runs and that he is happy for their success.

I need a lot of effort to get back in the Test team, Kishan said. Dhruv and Rishabh are doing so well. They are continuously scoring runs. I’m very happy for both of them. At the same time, my job is to not think about what can go wrong for them, but to keep getting better. If it’s meant to happen, it will.