Aoba Tanaka 
In a surprising turn of events, Indian wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan has withdrawn from the upcoming two-Test series against South Africa, starting on December 26. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed Kishan’s absence, initially attributing it to ‘personal reasons.’ However, recent reports suggest that Kishan cited “mental fatigue” due to extensive travel with the Indian team as the primary reason for his decision.
Ishan Kishan, a consistent member of the Indian cricket squad since January 3, 2023, has requested to be released from the upcoming Test series against South Africa. Initially cited as ‘personal reasons’ by the BCCI, a recent report in the Indian Express reveals that Kishan’s decision is rooted in “mental fatigue” arising from continuous travel with the Indian team over the past year.
The report states that Kishan approached the Indian team management during the South Africa tour, expressing his need for a break due to mental fatigue accumulated from non-stop travel. The Indian team management consulted with selectors, who reportedly agreed to Kishan’s request for a hiatus from cricket.
Kishan, who has been a part of every Indian squad since January 2023, faced limited game time due to constant travel. He played in the initial matches of the 50-over World Cup, contributing two half-centuries, and participated in the T20I series against Australia. Despite being part of the Test and intra-day squads for the South Africa series, Kishan opted to take a break, and Jitesh Sharma was chosen by the team management.
Ishan Kishan’s hectic schedule included representing Mumbai Indians in the entire IPL season, playing in the World Test Championship final in England, touring the West Indies, participating in the Asia Cup, and featuring in ODI series against Australia before the World Cup.
Kishan’s decision to step back sheds light on the toll of the intense cricketing schedule on players, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing mental health in professional sports. As Ishan Kishan takes a break from cricket citing mental fatigue, it prompts discussions on the rigorous schedules faced by modern-day cricketers. The BCCI and cricket fraternity acknowledge the significance of prioritizing mental health, and Kishan’s decision highlights the need for a holistic approach to player well-being in the highly demanding world of professional cricket.
