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The Untold Story Of Ishan Kishan’s Epic 273 Against Rishabh Pant’s Delhi In Ranji Trophy

Kaushik Kashyap

Ishan Kishan 273 vs Delhi. [Source - CricDomestic/x.com]Ishan Kishan 273 vs Delhi. [Source - CricDomestic/x.com]

Ishan Kishan had already earned a reputation as a dynamic wicketkeeper-batter at the highest level. Known for his attacking instincts and fearless approach, the 27-year-old from Jharkhand showed early glimpses of brilliance. But in 2016, during a Ranji Trophy clash against Delhi, he delivered a once-in-a-lifetime knock that truly defined his potential.

Kishan’s Breakthrough Knock Began with a Rescue

Ishan Kishan was just two years into his first-class career when he played the innings of his life. Jharkhand were struggling at 80/4 after being put in to bat by Delhi at St Xavier’s College Ground in Thumba in a Group B fixture. The early collapse included skipper Saurabh Tiwary and Delhi had full control of the proceedings.

Kishan walked in at 6 and flipped the momentum with a dazzling counterattack that left even everyone stunned. He built two crucial partnerships, first with the experienced Ishank Jaggi, then with the young Kaushal Singh. His fearless strokeplay and calculated aggression helped Jharkhand recover steadily and slowly got back in the contest.

By the end of Day 1, Kishan had powered his way to a brilliant 162* as Jharkhand reached 359/6 at stumps, leading a remarkable turnaround. His fluent drives, fearless pulls, and composure beyond his years left the Delhi side, which also featured a young Rishabh Pant, searching for answers.

The 273 That Defined Ishan Kishan’s Red-Ball Prowess

Ishan Kishan and Rishabh Pant. [Source - Ishan Kishan/Instagram]Ishan Kishan and Rishabh Pant. [Source - Ishan Kishan/Instagram]

On Day 2, Kishan continued in the same form, adding more than a hundred runs to his overnight score. He eventually fell after scoring a magnificent 273, the highest-ever first-class score by a Jharkhand player till date. His knock helped Jharkhand post a commanding 493 and completely changed the complexion of the contest.

Delhi responded strongly, with a young Rishabh Pant scoring centuries in both innings. The enthralling contest at Thumba ended in a hard-fought draw, but Ishan Kishan’s knock remains his most iconic in red-ball cricket, a blend of flair and composure from an 18-year-old destined for big things.

Since then, Kishan has gone on to represent India across formats, making his Test debut in the West Indies in 2023. He also recently turned out for Nottinghamshire in county cricket, gaining valuable experience in English conditions and continuing to grow as one of India’s most exciting wicketkeeper-batters.