Ishan Kishan has made it clear that Test cricket remains firmly on his radar as the wicketkeeper-batter continues to make his case in the domestic circuit. The 27-year-old is currently leading East Zone in the Duleep Trophy 2026 and recently guided his side to a commanding innings-and-210-run victory over North East Zone in the quarterfinal.

The result booked East Zone’s place in the semifinals, where they will face Central Zone from August 30. While Kishan did not make a major contribution with the bat, he was highly influential behind the stumps, producing five dismissals, including four catches and a sharp stumping that immediately reminded fans of MS Dhoni’s trademark work.

Impressive show in Duleep Trophy

East Zone dominated the quarterfinal from the outset, posting a mammoth 467 in their first innings. Sudip Gharami and Shahbaz Ahmed were the architects of the huge total after both produced impressive centuries. Kishan, however, had a relatively quiet outing with the bat and could not convert his opportunity into a substantial score. His impact came primarily through his wicketkeeping, where his quick reactions repeatedly troubled the North East Zone batters.

The performance nevertheless highlighted the all-round value Kishan can bring as a wicketkeeper-batter, particularly as he looks to put himself back into contention for higher honours.

Ishan Kishan reflects on Test comeback

Speaking to the media after East Zone’s emphatic win in Bengaluru, Kishan was asked about his desire to play Test cricket for India again. The left-handed batter responded with considerable enthusiasm, stressing that his affection for the longest format has not diminished despite his limited opportunities at the international level.

“One hundred per cent. Anyone who has played Tests would love this format. We know its importance and how it helps one get better. People don’t believe me, but I really do enjoy red-ball cricket,” Kishan said when asked if he wanted to return to Test cricket.

Kishan added that anyone who has experienced the format would understand its significance and explained that red-ball cricket continues to help players develop their game. He also spoke about what attracts him to the longer format like he enjoys the challenge of facing a moving ball, dealing with attacking fielders and engaging in the competitive exchanges that naturally develop during a Test match.

“I love this game (red ball). I enjoy it because when you are in the middle, the ball is moving, players are coming at you, there is banter going on with the other team,” added Kishan.

Also WATCH: Ishan Kishan pulls off lightning-fast stumping in Duleep Trophy 2026

Kishan’s short career for India in Tests

Kishan has represented India in only two Test matches, both coming during the 2023 tour of the West Indies. He has not added another Test appearance to his record since then.

Meanwhile, India are currently involved in a two-match Test series in Sri Lanka under captain Shubman Gill. India won the opening Test in Galle and are now pushing for another victory in the second Test in Colombo.

With the Test side undergoing a new phase of development, Kishan’s continued performances in domestic red-ball cricket could give the selectors another option to consider. For now, his message is clear: the hunger to play Test cricket for India is still very much alive.

Also WATCH: Abid Mushtaq cleans up Prithvi Shaw with a peach of a delivery in Duleep Trophy 2026