Ishan Kishan’s explosive 517-run SMAT season puts Shubman Gill’s T20 World Cup spot under fresh threat as India’s selectors weigh form with upcoming squad announcement

Ishan Kishan’s dominant Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy outing raises questions over Shubman Gill’s T20 World Cup place as India finalises its squad ahead of the February 2026 tournament.

New Delhi, December 20 2025: As India nears the announcement of its squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, debate is rising over the opening batting spots, with Ishan Kishan’s recent form forcing selectors to reassess established choices. Kishan finished as the leading run-scorer in this season’s Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, amassing 517 runs in 10 matches at a striking pace that has reignited calls for his inclusion in the national setup.

Shubman Gill’s place in the lineup had been viewed as almost assured, given his role in India’s recent white-ball plans and vice-captaincy responsibilities. But a combination of inconsistent performances in T20 internationals and Kishan’s domestic dominance has intensified discussions about whether the wicketkeeper-batter should force his way back into contention.

Kishan’s campaign was headlined by explosive innings, including a century in the final that showcased his aggressive stroke-making and ability to dominate bowling attacks. His striking strike rate and big scores put pressure on selectors to consider him either as an opener or as a contender for the wicket-keeper role, a spot that has otherwise been rotated in recent limited-overs fixtures.

While Gill has had mixed returns in the shortest format this year and even faced fitness concerns in recent series, team management has stressed that form and conditions will guide final decisions. With the squad reveal scheduled shortly and India’s World Cup campaign set to begin in early February, the clash between proven experience and current form is shaping up to be one of the selection’s biggest talking points.

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