Former Indian cricketer R Ashwin has expressed his disappointment over the exclusion of young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal from India’s ODI squad for the upcoming series against New Zealand. Ashwin raised concerns that the absence of match experience could harm Jaiswal’s confidence, especially after his impressive performances recently.
On October 16, the BCCI revealed the ODI and Test teams for the New Zealand tour, but Jaiswal did not make the cut for the 50-over format. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin suggested that Jaiswal should have been considered for the final two ODIs, particularly since Shubman Gill will not participate in those games.
“If Shubman Gill isn’t available for the last two ODIs, then Yashasvi Jaiswal should definitely be brought in. It’s unfortunate because this could really affect his confidence. Given his recent run-scoring, he deserves a chance,” Ashwin stated.
While acknowledging the circumstances surrounding both Gill and KL Rahul, Ashwin emphasized that Jaiswal hasn’t had the opportunity to play at an international level, which is critical for his development.
Jaiswal does, however, have a spot in India’s squad for the upcoming Test series against New Zealand and will also play for India A in a three-match red-ball series starting on October 26. Despite this, Ashwin believes that focusing on Test matches shouldn’t come at the expense of giving Jaiswal chances in other formats.
Ashwin’s concerns extend beyond this one selection. He believes that the selectors and team management should consider how the lack of international experience could affect Jaiswal, especially following his run-scoring feats.
“He has been a run machine, and we need to ensure that his confidence doesn’t take a hit. It’s the responsibility of the selectors and team management to provide him with opportunities, but he hasn’t been getting them. That’s just unfair,” Ashwin remarked.
He also noted that Jaiswal’s batting style has evolved over the past couple of years, which makes it even more essential for him to gain regular experience and find his rhythm once again.
Jaiswal has had limited chances in ODIs but made a strong impact in his last appearance, scoring an impressive unbeaten 110 runs off 86 balls against Afghanistan in June. This performance helped India secure a 3-0 series victory, coming in as a replacement for the injured Virat Kohli.
For Ashwin, Jaiswal’s strong showing raises frustration about his lack of opportunities. He questioned the last time Jaiswal played across all formats, emphasizing that match practice is irreplaceable.
“I understand the need to prep for Test cricket. But when was the last time Yashasvi Jaiswal played an ODI? A T20? A Test? His last Test was in Sri Lanka,” Ashwin pointed out.
As the ODI series against New Zealand approaches, starting January 11, India aims to lay the groundwork for the 2027 ODI World Cup. For Ashwin, Jaiswal’s absence from the squad poses a broader question about how India intends to make use of one of its most exciting batting prospects, especially given his proven ability to perform on the international stage.
