Does Ishan Kishan’s destructive 45-ball ton deserve a T20 World Cup call-up?

With national selectors watching from the stands, Ishan Kishan chose the grandest stage of domestic cricket to make a thunderous statement. The Jharkhand captain lit up the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy final in Pune, smashing a breathtaking 45-ball century that transformed the summit clash into his personal showcase of power, confidence and intent.

Early Setback, Instant Counterattack

Jharkhand’s innings began quietly after losing Virat Singh in the first over, but Kishan wasted no time shifting gears. Haryana’s bowling plans quickly unraveled as the left-hander launched a relentless assault, finding boundaries at will and clearing the ropes with ease. He reached his hundred with a one-handed six before breaking into a Pushpa-style celebration, underlining both flair and message.

When Kishan finally departed, he had bludgeoned 101 off 49 balls, laced with 10 sixes and six fours, leaving Jharkhand firmly in control.

A Rare Century on the Biggest Stage

The knock carried historical significance. Kishan became only the second batter to score a century in a Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy final, joining Anmolpreet Singh in a rare club. It was also Jharkhand’s first-ever SMAT final, making the captain’s innings even more special.

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Partnership That Broke the Game Open

The momentum was powered by a brutal 177-run partnership with Kumar Kushagra, who chipped in with a rapid 81 off 38 balls. While Kishan dominated the straight boundary and extra cover, Kushagra punished anything loose, ensuring Haryana never found breathing space.

Powered by late cameos, Jharkhand posted a staggering 262 runs, handing Haryana a near-impossible chase in a final.

Selectors Take Note

With RP Singh and Pragyan Ojha in attendance, the innings couldn’t have come at a better time. It capped a standout tournament for Kishan, who had already struck an unbeaten 113 off 45 balls earlier.

Leading from the front! 🫡

Ishan Kishan with a magnificent hundred in the #SMAT final 💯

The Jharkhand captain walks back for 1⃣0⃣1⃣(49) 👏

Updates ▶️ https://t.co/3fGWDCTjoo@IDFCFIRSTBank | @ishankishan51pic.twitter.com/PJ7VI752wp

— BCCI Domestic (@BCCIdomestic) December 18, 2025

A Comeback Gathering Pace

For Haryana, the challenge wasn’t just the total, it was the speed of destruction. For Kishan, it was a reminder that form, confidence and hunger can turn a final into a comeback moment waiting to be noticed.

With the 2026 T20 World Cup drawing closer, India’s opening combination for the mega event is yet to be finalised. Sanju Samson has not been consistently backed in the setup, while Shubman Gill’s form in the format has been under scrutiny, leaving the door open for fresh options at the top.

In that context, Ishan Kishan’s explosive knock has come at the perfect time, strengthening his case for a return to the national side. Whether the selectors hand him an opportunity to showcase his worth on the international stage remains to be seen, only time will tell.