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NEW DELHI: Young Indian cricketers Ishan Kishan and Abhishek Sharma spoke candidly about their journeys of struggle, criticism and self-belief after playing key roles in India’s triumph at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. Both batters struck half-centuries in the final as India defeated New Zealand national cricket team by 96 runs on Sunday to clinch their third T20 World Cup title. India had earlier won the tournament in 2007 and 2024.Kishan was one of India’s standout performers throughout the tournament, scoring three half-centuries. Abhishek, however, had a far more difficult journey leading up to the final.
The left-handed opener faced heavy criticism after failing to score in his first three matches of the tournament, registering ducks against the USA, Pakistan and the Netherlands. He finally broke the streak against South Africa but managed only 15 runs. A knock of 55 against Zimbabwe briefly lifted his confidence, but he struggled again in the following games, scoring just 10 and 9 against West Indies and England.Despite the poor run of form, the team management continued to back him. Their faith paid off in the most important match of the tournament. In the final, Abhishek delivered a stunning performance, smashing 52 off just 21 balls, including eight sixes, to provide India with a blistering start.Kishan’s journey to the World Cup was also far from easy. He had spent a long period out of the national team and was even left out of the central contracts list. However, he continued to work hard and waited patiently for his opportunity.The wicketkeeper-batter eventually earned his place back in the side after leading Jharkhand to the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy title earlier this year.After India’s victory in Ahmedabad, both players addressed the media and spoke about overcoming difficult phases in their careers.When asked about dealing with setbacks, Abhishek began responding before Kishan interrupted him, joking that his own struggles had lasted much longer, triggering laughter in the room.“I can also answer that. You were in bad form for a month, I spent two years out of team,” Kishan said as the duo broke into laughter.Reflecting on how he managed to stay mentally strong, Kishan stressed the importance of belief and resilience.“I think for me the most important thing is self belief. Because once you go into that self-doubt zone then that puts pressure on your game. That does not help individually and you are not also helping the team. So, self belief, hard work and when you help others in their bad time, it returns to you as well,” Ishan said.He added that his time in domestic cricket helped him change his perspective and focus on contributing more to the team environment.“So, this is what i learned in domestic. Instead just focussing on myself, I thought why should not I take the whole team forward…. Have good company, do hard work, be happy and never lose confidence in yourself. And you definitely have to improve your game,” Kishan, who led Jharkhand to the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy this year, said.After Kishan finished, Abhishek — who had dominated the bowlers in the final — took the microphone to share his thoughts.“Your company matters a lot in these times. If you are surrounded by people who are there to make you happy and make you feel that you have achieved something. Everyone (in the team) was so supportive and so happy. All the players, coaches and support staff, I never see any doubt on anyone’s face even though I was doubting myself,” Abhishek said.
