Why Wait? Parthiv Patel’s Case for an Immediate Ishan Kishan Recall
The debate over India’s first-choice wicketkeeper-batter for the upcoming T20 World Cup has been reignited, and this time, it comes from a former player who knows the role inside out. Parthiv Patel, a seasoned campaigner with over 200 international matches under his belt, has made a strong, public plea for the team management to drop Sanju Samson and hand the gloves to Ishan Kishan for the fifth and final T20I against New Zealand in Thiruvananthapuram on January 30, 2026 [[1]].
Patel’s argument isn’t just about one player’s form over another; it’s a strategic call for clarity and long-term vision. “Why wait?” he asks, suggesting that if Kishan is indeed the preferred candidate for the marquee event later this year, there’s no better time than now to cement his place in the side.
Table of Contents
- Ishan Kishan’s Compelling Return to Form
- Sanju Samson’s Struggles Against the Kiwis
- Parthiv’s Strategic Reasoning: Depth and Aggression
- The Stakes for the Final T20I and Beyond
- Conclusion: A Decision That Could Define India’s World Cup Hopes
Ishan Kishan’s Compelling Return to Form
After a long hiatus from the Indian T20I setup, Ishan Kishan announced his return in spectacular fashion during the ongoing series against New Zealand. In the 2nd T20I, he smashed a blistering 76 runs, which included the fastest fifty by an Indian against the Kiwis in the format, off just 21 balls [[11], [15]]. His fearless approach in the 3rd T20I was also lauded by experts, who noted how he can single-handedly change the course of a game within a few overs [[10], [16]].
Kishan’s ability to provide explosive starts at the top of the order or in the middle overs offers a unique X-factor that the current Indian lineup seems to crave. His recent performances have not only showcased his talent but also his readiness to shoulder responsibility on the big stage, making him a prime candidate for the T20 World Cup squad.
Sanju Samson’s Struggles Against the Kiwis
On the other side of the coin is Sanju Samson, a player with undeniable talent and a brilliant record as an opener in T20Is overall [[23]]. However, his returns against New Zealand have been consistently poor. In the current series, his scores have been modest, contributing to a career T20I average of just 4.3 against the Black Caps [[19], [22], [26]].
While Samson has shown flashes of brilliance in domestic cricket and the IPL, his inability to convert starts into substantial scores against this particular opponent raises serious questions about his suitability for the final, high-pressure match. For a player of his caliber, such a prolonged struggle against a specific team is a significant red flag for the selectors.
Parthiv’s Strategic Reasoning: Depth and Aggression
Parthiv Patel’s endorsement of Ishan Kishan goes beyond just individual statistics. He has highlighted a critical issue with the current Indian batting lineup: a lack of depth [[4]]. By playing Kishan, who is a genuine wicketkeeper and a destructive batter, the team can free up a spot for an extra bowling all-rounder or a specialist bowler, thereby creating a more balanced and formidable XI.
Patel’s logic is rooted in practicality. If the team management has already identified Kishan as their long-term solution for the wicketkeeper-batter role, delaying his integration into the core group serves no purpose. The final T20I is the perfect low-risk, high-reward opportunity to test this combination before the World Cup. It allows the team to build chemistry and gives Kishan the confidence of a full game under his belt.
The Stakes for the Final T20I and Beyond
Although the series is already decided, the final T20I in Thiruvananthapuram carries immense weight. It’s the last chance for the Indian think-tank to experiment, to answer lingering questions, and to send a strong message about their World Cup intentions. The official squad list for the 5th T20I already includes both Kishan and Samson, setting the stage for a direct selection battle [[2], [7]].
This decision isn’t just about one game; it’s a statement of intent. Choosing Ishan Kishan would signal a shift towards a more aggressive, dynamic brand of cricket, while sticking with Samson might be seen as playing it safe. With the T20 World Cup on the horizon, fans and experts alike are watching closely to see which direction the team will take. This is a crucial juncture for India’s planning, as they look to finalize their core group for the global event [[18]].
Conclusion: A Decision That Could Define India’s World Cup Hopes
Parthiv Patel’s call to play Ishan Kishan over Sanju Samson is more than just a tactical suggestion; it’s a challenge to the team’s leadership to be bold and decisive. In modern T20 cricket, where momentum and confidence are everything, giving a player like Kishan a chance to seize the moment could be the spark India needs. The final T20I is not just a dead rubber; it’s a live audition for the biggest tournament of the year. The question remains: will the selectors listen to the voice of experience and make the switch?