His year began with controversy, having been excluded from the BCCI central contracts for not representing Jharkhand in the Ranji Trophy. However, Kishan rejoined his state team ahead of the upcoming domestic season and delivered a standout performance in its opening match against Madhya Pradesh.
Kishan set the tone with a magnificent century, hammering 114 runs off just 107 deliveries, which played a pivotal role in giving Jharkhand a 64-run lead in the first innings.
Yet, the match took a tense turn when Jharkhand, chasing a modest target of 174, suffered a middle-order collapse.
Despite starting strong at 65/1, the team faltered, losing five wickets for a mere 70 runs. The game was precariously balanced, with 12 runs still needed to win and only two wickets in hand.
In a display of calmness under pressure, Kishan showed his experience as he anchored one end and demonstrated the qualities that made him a regular in the Indian team.
He calmly navigated the challenging situation, securing the win for Jharkhand in dramatic fashion.
Facing spinner Akash Rajawat in the 55th over, Kishan unleashed two powerful sixes on the second and fourth deliveries, sealing a victorious start for his team in the tournament.