Ishan Kishan to take ‘Break from Cricket’ due to ‘Mental Fatigue’, set to miss South Africa Test series: Reports
In a setback for Team India, three crucial players from the initial squad will be absent during the upcoming two-match Test series against South Africa, scheduled to commence on Tuesday in Centurion. The trio, namely Ruturaj Gaikwad, Mohammed Shami, and Ishan Kishan, were part of the initial selection but will not be donning the Indian colors in the upcoming Test series.
Ruturaj Gaikwad finds himself on the sidelines due to a finger injury sustained during the recently concluded ODI series. This setback comes as a blow to the young batsman, and his absence will be felt in the batting lineup.
Meanwhile, experienced fast bowler Mohammed Shami did not accompany the team to South Africa, as he continues his recovery from an ankle injury at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru. Shami’s absence leaves a void in the Indian pace attack, and the team will have to rely on other resources to fill his shoes.
Ishan Kishan to take ‘Break from Cricket’ due to ‘Mental Fatigue’, set to miss South Africa Test series: Reports
Ishan Kishan, the promising wicketkeeper-batsman, has opted out of the series citing “personal reasons.” While the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) initially provided a brief statement regarding Ishan’s withdrawal, recent reports shed light on the true reason behind his decision.
According to the Indian Express, Ishan Kishan is dealing with “mental fatigue” resulting from continuous travel and a lack of sufficient game time. Sources reveal that the player had communicated his need for a break to the team management last week, highlighting the toll of non-stop travel over the past year. This request was discussed with the selectors, who granted Ishan the break he sought.
“He informed the team management that he is having mental fatigue and wants a break from cricket for some time. Everyone agreed to it,” confirmed a source to the national daily.
Contrary to the BCCI’s initial statement citing “personal reasons,” the true nature of Ishan Kishan’s absence reflects the increasing awareness of mental health challenges faced by cricketers amid their hectic schedules.
Last week, the BCCI had officially announced Ishan Kishan’s withdrawal, mentioning “personal reasons.” In his absence, the selectors have named KS Bharat as his replacement. This development poses additional challenges for the Indian team as they prepare for a tough series against South Africa.
As the cricketing world increasingly recognizes the importance of mental well-being, Ishan Kishan’s decision to prioritize mental health sheds light on the need for players to manage their mental fatigue effectively. The Indian team, now without the services of these three players, will need to regroup and focus on delivering strong performances in the upcoming Test series against South Africa.
Also read: IND vs SA 1st Test: Preview, Match Details, Predicted Playing 11, Head-to-Head, Venue, FAQs
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