Stylish wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan is set to embark on his journey back into the Indian cricket fold, leading his state team, Jharkhand, in the upcoming Buchi Babu Trophy 2024. The prestigious domestic tournament is scheduled to kick off on August 15 in Tamil Nadu, marking an important milestone in Kishan's career.

After a prolonged absence from the Indian squad, Kishan's return to competitive cricket has garnered significant attention. The 25-year-old has not featured for India in any format in 2024, following his exclusion from the BCCI's central contracts. His absence was reportedly due to his reluctance to participate in domestic cricket, but now, Kishan is ready to make a strong case for his India comeback.

A JSCA official, while speaking to ESPNcricinfo, emphasized that the decision to include Kishan was never about questioning his talent "With Ishan, it was never about ability. It was only about whether he was ready to return. The decision was with him. When he was not included in the initial list, it was only because we hadn't heard from him. The moment he expressed his keenness to return, he was drafted in," the official stated.

Kishan's return comes at a crucial time, as Team India gears up for an intense Test season with 10 matches lined up over the next five months. Having made his Test debut during India's tour of the West Indies last year, Kishan was also selected for the South Africa Test series but opted out due to mental fatigue. Now, with the opportunity to lead Jharkhand in the Buchi Babu Trophy, Kishan has the perfect platform to showcase his skills and push for a return to the national team.