'Ishan Kishan opens up the game for any team' - Sourav Ganguly picks India's wicketkeeper for World Cup

Former India captain Sourav Ganguly spoke on India's hunt for a wicketkeeper-batter for the upcoming Asia Cup and ODI World Cup on home soil. With Rishabh Pant's absence due to a previous car crash injury, the selection decision has become an important point for Indian cricket.

Ganguly, a respected figure in Indian cricket, expressed his preference for Ishan Kishan as the wicketkeeper-batter choice, citing the young player's explosive batting style as a key factor.

"Pant is the best wicketkeeper in the country, but you can see Ishan Kishan, KL Rahul (depending on his fitness); these two will be right up in Rohit's and Rahul's minds. I like Ishan Kishan because he just opens up the game for any team. I am sure Dravid will keep him in his plans," Ganguly said during a recent event.

In line with his vision for the team, Ganguly advocated for a balanced composition of experienced players and fresh faces. He highlighted the likes of Yashasvi Jaiswal, Tilak Varma, and Ishan Kishan as players unburdened by past setbacks, capable of playing fearless cricket.

Ganguly emphasized the wealth of options available for head coach Rahul Dravid and selectors to choose from, affirming that the focus should be on identifying the best playing XI. "It has to be a team of experience and people who don't have any scars -- like Jaiswal, Varma, Ishan Kishan. They can go and play fearless cricket. Rahul (Dravid), Rohit and the selectors have plenty of choices; they just have to identify and pick the best XI," Ganguly said.

Kishan, with a good track record, has amassed 694 runs at an impressive average of 46.26 across 17 ODIs. Notably, he boasts a remarkable double century and six half-centuries. The decision holds great importance, considering India's desire to clinch victory on home turf in the marquee tournament. 

The forthcoming marquee tournaments, Asia Cup and World Cup  2023 are scheduled to start on August 30 and October 5, respectively.