New Delhi, October 14, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Former India batter Cheteshwar Pujara has backed Ishan Kishan’s aggressive approach at No. 3 in India’s ongoing T20I series, saying the wicketkeeper-batter is fulfilling the team’s requirements by maximising the powerplay and providing quick runs.
Pujara believes Kishan’s performances should be assessed in the context of India’s attacking top order rather than solely through individual scores or personal milestones. With several explosive batters in the lineup, he said, the priority is to give the team a strong start and maintain scoring momentum.
“Coming in at number 3, Ishan Kishan is giving the Indian team what they need. I don’t think you will see a big score every time because everyone in the top order is an explosive player,” Pujara told JioStar.
He noted that Kishan has made effective use of the powerplay and has also contributed with quickfire scores of 30–40 runs when required.
“I think that’s good enough. Maybe, for his personal milestones, you might want him to score big runs, but he is doing the job for the team at the moment,” Pujara said.
The former India batter also praised Naman Dhir for his bowling control, variations and ability to read batters, describing his tactical awareness as a key strength in the shortest format.
Pujara cited Dhir’s performance in the previous game against Kamil Pooran, when the bowler conceded three sixes but persisted with his plan and adjusted his line to eventually claim the wicket.
According to Pujara, Dhir’s ability to vary his pace and use changes in line and length helps him deceive batters. He also highlighted the all-rounder’s understanding of his own strengths and his willingness to stick to a plan even after facing an expensive passage of play.
Pujara said Dhir’s control and awareness of how batters approach their innings could make him a valuable bowling option for India in T20 cricket.
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