Daijiworld Media Network - Ahmedabad
Ahmedabad, Mar 9: India wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan dedicated India’s victory in the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup to his late cousin sister, revealing that she and his brother-in-law died in a car accident just a day before the tournament final.
Kishan played a crucial role in the summit clash at the Narendra Modi Stadium, scoring 54 runs and helping India national cricket team secure a commanding 96-run victory over the New Zealand national cricket team to claim their third T20 World Cup title.
Speaking to reporters after the match, Kishan shared the personal tragedy he faced ahead of the final and said his performance was dedicated to his cousin. He revealed that he spoke to teammate Hardik Pandya before the game, who advised him to focus on the team despite the emotional situation. Kishan said the victory held even deeper meaning as it coincided with International Women’s Day.
The wicketkeeper-batter also reflected on his challenging journey back into the national team after being out of the setup for nearly two years. He finished the tournament as India’s second-highest run-scorer, behind Sanju Samson.
During that period away from the side, Kishan said he learned the importance of focusing on effort rather than results. He emphasised that while skills remain the same, a player’s mindset and hunger for success make the real difference. According to him, removing fear of failure and staying present helped him regain confidence.
Kishan also credited the example set by Virat Kohli as a major inspiration. He said watching Kohli’s dedication and consistent energy over the years helped him understand the value of hard work and self-improvement rather than worrying about selection or outcomes.
The 27-year-old also recalled a memorable phone call from India captain Suryakumar Yadav before the World Cup squad was announced. Kishan said Yadav asked him whether he could help India win the tournament, to which he replied by asking if the captain trusted him. When Yadav confirmed his faith, Kishan promised to deliver.
Kishan’s return to the national side followed a strong domestic phase, including leading Jharkhand cricket team to victory in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy in 2025. His consistent performances eventually earned him a place back in the Indian squad, where he went on to play every match of the World Cup campaign.
Reflecting on the triumph, Kishan said the victory meant a great deal to both him and his family. He added that while athletes are accustomed to dealing with ups and downs in their careers, it is often their family members who feel the emotional strain the most. For him, bringing happiness to them by returning to the team and helping India win the World Cup made the achievement even more meaningful.