1. Ishan Kishan: The “Sledgehammer” Statement
Ishan Kishan has effectively ended any questions about his readiness with a historic domestic season.
- The Record Blitz: On December 24, 2025, Kishan smashed 125 off just 39 balls (at a strike rate of 320.51) against Karnataka. He reached his century in 33 balls, the second-fastest by an Indian in List A history.
- Role Adaptation: Crucially, he played this knock at No. 6, proving he can be the explosive middle-order finisher India needs.
- Sustained Momentum: He finished the 2025 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy as the leading run-scorer (517 runs), leading Jharkhand to their first-ever title.
2. Dhruv Jurel: The Outrageous High-Flyer
Jurel is currently the most consistent batter in the VHT 2025-26, playing with a “seeing the ball like a football” confidence.
- The Numbers: In his first three matches, he has amassed 307 runs, including a maiden List A century of 160 off 101 balls* against Baroda yesterday.
- The Verdict: While his form is “outrageous,” selectors may view him as a long-term prospect for the middle order or a primary backup, given his relatively lower volume of List A experience compared to Kishan and Pant.
3. Rishabh Pant: The High Ceiling vs. Current Rhythm
Pant remains India’s most naturally gifted keeper-batter, but the “recency effect” is currently working against him.
- Current Form: In the VHT, Pant showed a glimpse of his class with a 70 (79 balls) against Gujarat on December 26, but his other outings have been quiet.
- The Selection Gap: Pant’s ODI rhythm hasn’t been built consistently over the last year. While his talent is undisputed, he currently lacks the “knock-down-the-door” domestic stats that Kishan and Jurel are producing.
| Player | Best Score (VHT) | Standout Feature | Current VHT Total |
| Ishan Kishan | 125 (39 balls) | Strike rate of 320+ at No. 6 | High impact finisher |
| Dhruv Jurel | 160 (101 balls)* | 300+ runs in just 3 innings | Consistent anchor-accelerator |
| Rishabh Pant | 70 (79 balls) | Composed knock under pressure | Proven match-winner in rhythm |
Conclusion: Why Ishan Kishan is the Current Fit
Looking through the lens of role clarity, Kishan ticks the most boxes:
- Matchup Advantage: Being a left-hander in the middle order.
- Tempo Control: Ability to accelerate immediately (as seen in his 33-ball ton).
- Versatility: Can open or bat at No. 6 with equal ferocity.
- Current Form: Coming off a title-winning T20 campaign and a record-breaking List A knock.