'Ishan's ability to adapt and improve makes him special': Graeme Swann
New Delhi, June 18
Former England spinner Graeme Swann lavished praise on Ishan Kishan after the wicketkeeper-batter's explosive century helped India register a commanding 170-run victory over Afghanistan in the second ODI in Lucknow and secure the three-match series.
Kishan produced one of the finest knocks of his ODI career, smashing 125 off just 79 deliveries, studded with 14 fours and seven sixes. His breathtaking innings came in a match-winning 224-run third-wicket partnership with captain Shubman Gill, who struck a magnificent 154 as India piled up 402 before bowling Afghanistan out for 232.
Speaking on JioStar Swann highlighted Kishan's versatility and selfless approach, saying the left-hander has the rare ability to adapt to any role demanded by the team.
"He is the sort of player who will do whatever job you ask of him without any complaints. The fact that he's come back into the team and looks like he's never been away is remarkable," Swann said.
The former England spinner was particularly impressed by the manner in which Kishan constructed his innings before unleashing a devastating assault on Afghanistan's bowling attack.
"He came to the crease and was circumspect for his first fifty, but then took just 19 deliveries to go from 50 to 100, which is ridiculous. It wasn't crazy hitting or slogging either. He was simply being sensible, picking his spots on the leg side, forcing the bowlers to change their lines, and then playing those gorgeous lofted extra-cover drives."
Swann said Kishan's acceleration reflected not only his natural talent but also his growing maturity as a batter.
"It's a sign of sheer class. That shot, wide of long-off, is something he's worked on over the last two years. It was an area where bowlers could shut him down, but he went away, worked on it, and turned it into a strength, which is brilliant," he added.
Kishan reached his century in just 71 balls and ensured India's scoring rate never dipped during his partnership with Gill. The duo completely dominated the Afghan attack and laid the foundation for one of India's highest ODI totals in recent times.
India's bowlers then completed the job in emphatic fashion, with Arshdeep Singh and Gurnoor Brar claiming three wickets apiece, while Rahmat Shah's fighting 79 proved insufficient as Afghanistan were dismissed for 232.
The victory handed India an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series ahead of the final ODI in Chennai.
— IANS
Reader Comments
What a partnership between Kishan and Gill! 224 runs in quick time, both centuries, and that too against a decent Afghan attack. The way Kishan targeted the leg side and then opened up with those lofted drives... Swann is right, two years of hard work visible. Just hope he gets consistent chances now, rather than being in and out of the XI.
Swann's analysis is top-notch as always. The point about Kishan working on that extra-cover drive over two years is exactly what separates good players from great ones. But let's not forget Gill either - 154 runs and he made it look effortless. India's batting future looks very bright! 🏏🔥
One concern though - this was against Afghanistan. The real test will be against Australia or England in high-pressure matches. Kishan has the talent, no doubt, but consistency is key. Hope he doesn't become another 'one-match wonder' like many others. That said, it was a magnificent innings and Swann's praise is well-deserved.
Swann is one of the few overseas experts who actually understands Indian cricket. His point about Kishan's selflessness is key - in a team with stars like Kohli, Rohit, and now Gill, you need players who can adapt. Kishan opening, coming at 3, or even lower down... he's like a Swiss Army knife. And that 224-run stand was pure entertainment! 🎯
The way he went from 50
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