‘My intent was very clear - If ball is there, I'll go for it’ - Ishan Kishan after smashing fastest double century in ODIs

Hailing all the way from Patna, Ishan Kishan became the youngest and fastest batter to score a double century in One Day Internationals. Playing against Bangladesh at Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium in Chattogram, the 24-year-old dominated all the bowlers, scoring 210 in 131 deliveries. Replacing Rohit Sharma in the playing XI, the southpaw played a blistering knock which included 24 fours and ten maximums at an incredible strike rate of 160.30.

After his ferocious innings, Kishan talked about his game plan and revealed how Virat Kohli calmed him down before his maiden double hundred in international cricket. The opener also believes that he could have scored a record-breaking 300 runs in case he remained not out until the end.

“The wicket was too good to bat on. My intent was very clear - if the ball is there, I'll go for it. I'm blessed to hear my name amid such legends. Still feel when I got out - 15 overs were left. Could've scored 300 also. Batting with Virat bhai, he has such good sense of the game. He was calming me down when I was in my 90s. I wanted to bring it up with a six, but he said to get it in singles as it's your first,” said Kishan while speaking to the host broadcaster.

I didn't take too much pressure on myself, just wanted to make use of the opportunity: Kishan

Despite playing a meticulous innings, Kishan’s position in the playing XI isn’t guaranteed. With Rohit Sharma set to return for the next series and Shubman Gill waiting in the wings, Kishan will have to wait to get his next opportunity in the 50-over format. However, with this knock, he surely sent a message to the selectors and eventually solidified his place in India’s scheme of things for next year’s ODI World Cup.

After the majestic knock, the cricketer revealed about his chat with Suryakumar Yadav before the match and also mentioned how he didn’t take much pressure as he just wanted to make the most of the opportunity.

“Had a chat with Surya bhai - he said when you bat before the game, you see the ball well. I didn't take too much pressure on myself. Just wanted to make use of the opportunity,” he added.