ICC T20 World Cup – Salman Butt explains why playing Ishan Kishan against New Zealand will benefit India

Former Pakistan captain Salman Butt stated India must play Ishan Kishan in the upcoming match against New Zealand. He added that Kishan deserves to be in the playing XI not only because of his form, but there is a tactical angle to it as well.

“Ishan Kishan is in great form and India should play him. Suryakumar Yadav is also a very good player, no doubt about that. However, you utilize those players who are in better form. Players who are confident give you more because they have runs under their belt. The player whose confidence level is down is not a lesser cricketer. But you select those players who are likely to be more useful in a game.”

Butt said that since the Kiwis do not have an off-spinner in the squad, Ishan at the top of the order could benefit the Men in Blue in the ICC T20 World Cup match. “Tactically as well, Harbhajan has a point. New Zealand do not have an off-spinner. One is a left-arm spinner (Mitchell Santner) and the other is a right-arm leg-spinner (Ish Sodhi). Left-handers are more likely to dominate such kind of bowlers. Strategically, it will be the right move.”