This has to be one of the defining knocks of Ishan Kishan's IPL career, says Sanjay Bangar
New Delhi, May 19
Former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar hailed Ishan Kishan's calmness and maturity after the wicketkeeper-batter guided Sunrisers Hyderabad to a crucial five-wicket victory over Chennai Super Kings and into the IPL 2026 playoffs.
Kishan played a brilliant innings in the chase, with his 70 coming off 47 balls in the slow and turning Chepauk conditions and was involved in the match-winning stand with Heinrich Klaasen after they had lost Travis Head in the second over.
"This has to be one of the defining knocks of Ishan Kishan's IPL career, and probably one of his finest innings in the tournament as well," Bangar said on JioHotstar.
"Ever since we've seen this new version of Ishan Kishan, the one thing that really stands out is his composure. He never looked hurried, and that is a tremendous quality to have in a fast-paced T20 format."
"To have the belief to stay till the very end and build that partnership was outstanding."
Bangar also compared Kishan's innings to the kind of responsibility expected from a senior batter in difficult conditions.
"The kind of role Stephen Fleming would probably have expected from someone like Ruturaj was delivered by Ishan Kishan in the other innings," he said.
"He stitched the partnership at the right time, attacked when needed, and ensured Klaasen got as much of the strike as possible."
"There were so many aspects to admire about this innings. It was an absolute joy to watch him bat in such terrific fashion."
Klaasen, whose 47 came off a mere 26 balls, had initially sped up the chase before Kishan finished things with ease along with Nitish Kumar Reddy and Smaran Ravichandran. Earlier, CSK had made 180/7 at which stage Dewald Brevis had top-scored with 44 and Pat Cummins had ended up with figures of 3/28 to pick his 200th T20 wicket. The win booked SRH's spot in the playoffs with 16 points from 13 matches and consolidated their reputation as the best batting outfit in IPL 2026.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Absolutely brilliant batting from Kishan! He's been playing with so much maturity this season. But let's not forget Pat Cummins' bowling too—3/28 and his 200th T20 wicket! That was crucial in restricting CSK. SRH are looking dangerous in playoffs. 💪
Great knock, but honestly, I think the hype is a bit overdone. Chepauk has been a tough chase for any team, and he did play well. But Bangar comparing him to Ruturaj's role seems a stretch—Ruturaj has been consistent for years. One good innings doesn't define a career. Still, well played Ishan. 👏
As an SRH fan from Hyderabad, I was on the edge of my seat! Kishan and Klaasen partnership was pure class. So happy to see them in playoffs again. The way Kishan finished it with Reddy and Smaran—that's the Indian talent we love to see. 🧡 #OrangeArmy
Kishan showing why he's still one of the most exciting talents in India! That 70 off 47 on a turning Chepauk track is seriously underrated. And Klaasen's 26-ball 47—absolute carnage. SRH batting depth is scary good this year. CSK missed Bravo and Jadeja in the death overs. 💥
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.