Why Ishan Kishan is Not Wicket Keeping Today in AFG vs IND 1st T20I?

The number one T20I side in the world, India, is locking horns with Afghanistan in the Friendship Cup 2026. The Jharkhand-based player, Ishan Kishan, is not keeping wickets today, leaving fans curious about the decision.

With other wicketkeeper-batter options available for India, the team management had an important call to make before the match. So, why is Ishan Kishan not wicket keeping today in AFG vs IND 1st T20I? Here is everything you need to know about the decision and the latest update.

Why Ishan Kishan is Not Wicket Keeping Today?

One of the best wicketkeepers in the world, Ishan Kishan will not take the wicketkeeping gloves for India in the 1st T20I against Afghanistan today. The decision comes after the batter suffered a minor back sprain during a practice session at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi. Kishan felt discomfort while trying to move away from a bouncer bowled by Navdeep Saini in the nets and was checked by the team physios.

Although he has been cleared to bat, the team management decided not to make him keep wickets to avoid putting extra pressure on his back. As a result, Sanju Samson wicketkeeper today for India. The move is aimed at managing Kishan’s workload and preventing his minor injury from getting worse during the match.

Ishan Kishan made an important contribution in the field with a sharp run-out. The ball was bowled on a good length and angled into the batter, forcing him to play it towards deep midwicket. Kishan quickly moved across from the deep and collected the ball cleanly. Afghanistan’s batters took one run and attempted a second, but the running between the wickets broke down as Ibrahim Zadran slipped while turning back.

Kishan reacted quickly and sent a strong throw towards the stumps. The throw was accurate and reached Axar Patel, who was waiting near the stumps to complete the run-out. The effort showed Kishan’s attentiveness and quick fielding skills.