Kishan, Tilak ready for Afghanistan T20I challenge after Duleep Trophy final

Ishan Kishan and Tilak Varma have admitted that the quick transition from the five-day Duleep Trophy final to India's T20I series against Afghanistan will be challenging, but both are confident of adapting to the change in format.

Kishan, who will captain East Zone in the Duleep Trophy final against Tilak-led South Zone in Chennai, will have only a short break before joining the Indian T20I squad in Delhi. East Zone vice-captain Vaibhav Sooryavanshi also faces a similar turnaround.

Kishan said switching from red-ball cricket to the aggressive demands of T20 cricket can be difficult, but stressed that adapting to different formats is part of a professional cricketer's job. With two days available for preparation before the opening T20I against Afghanistan, he believes there will be enough time to adjust.

Tilak echoed those views, describing the turnaround as "slightly challenging" after playing a five-day final. However, he said his experience of playing across formats in domestic and international cricket has prepared him to handle such transitions. He added that proper recovery, hydration and a quick shift in mindset would be key.

Meanwhile, Kishan also praised Mohammed Shami ahead of the fast bowler's 100th first-class appearance. Shami, who last represented India during the 2025 Champions Trophy, continues to feature in domestic cricket as he works towards a possible return to the national side.

According to Kishan, the 36-year-old still possesses the same hunger and motivation to compete at the highest level. He highlighted Shami's intensity and energy this season and said the experienced pacer remains eager to help the team while pushing for a comeback to the Indian squad.

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