The ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy has been a showcase of exceptional performances, with players like Ishan Kishan, Ruturaj Gaikwad, and Shreyas Iyer making strong cases for a spot in India’s upcoming Champions Trophy squad.

Ishan Kishan’s Match-Winning Knock
Ishan Kishan, eager to make a comeback to the Indian team, delivered a scintillating performance against Manipur. The wicketkeeper-batter smashed 134 runs off just 78 deliveries, helping Jharkhand secure a dominant 9-wicket victory. Kishan’s innings featured 16 boundaries and six towering sixes, reaffirming his prowess in white-ball cricket.
Kishan, who was part of India’s 2023 ODI World Cup squad, has faced challenges in maintaining his place in the national setup. After opting out of Ranji Trophy games and losing his central contract, he is now leveraging domestic tournaments to make his return.
Ruturaj Gaikwad’s Spectacular Century
Ruturaj Gaikwad also left a mark with a breathtaking 148* off 74 balls against Services. Leading Maharashtra from the front, Gaikwad’s innings included 16 fours and 11 sixes, propelling his team to a comfortable 9-wicket victory. The opener’s consistent performances in white-ball cricket have made him a strong contender for selection in the Champions Trophy squad.
Shreyas Iyer Displays Aggression
Shreyas Iyer continued his impressive run in domestic cricket, scoring a quickfire 44 off 20 balls in Mumbai’s 3-wicket win over Hyderabad. Having had a successful stint at the No. 4 position during the 2023 ODI World Cup, Iyer is likely to secure a spot in India’s squad for the upcoming series against England and the Champions Trophy.
However, the same match saw a disappointing performance from Suryakumar Yadav, who was dismissed for just 18 runs.
Mixed Fortunes for Other Players
Rajat Patidar: Madhya Pradesh skipper Rajat Patidar struggled in a low-scoring match against Delhi, scoring only two runs as his team was bowled out for 132 while chasing a target of 212. Delhi’s Navdeep Saini starred with the ball, claiming four wickets in a dominating display.
Krunal Pandya: Baroda’s Krunal Pandya played a pivotal role in his team’s 62-run win over Kerala. Pandya scored an unbeaten 80 off 54 balls, hitting seven fours and three sixes. Baroda posted a mammoth total of 403/4, with Ninad Rathva also contributing a brilliant 136.
Players Making a Strong Case
With the Champions Trophy on the horizon, performances in domestic tournaments like the Vijay Hazare Trophy are crucial. Kishan and Gaikwad’s centuries, along with Iyer’s consistent form, have strengthened their chances of inclusion in the Indian squad, while other players like Patidar and Suryakumar Yadav will look to bounce back in upcoming matches.