New Delhi: Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has criticised the national selection committee for leaving Yashasvi Jaiswal out of India’s squad for the ODI series against New Zealand, describing the decision as unfair and unfortunate. He believes the young opener should have been considered for the final two matches, particularly with Shubman Gill being rested.
With India preparing for the 2027 ODI World Cup, opportunities to assess players and strengthen the squad have become increasingly important. Jaiswal’s continued absence from limited overs cricket has raised questions about his role in India’s plans, especially as the team looks to build depth ahead of the global tournament.
Ashwin expressed his disappointment in a discussion on his YouTube channel, arguing that the final two ODIs presented an ideal opportunity to give Jaiswal valuable international match practice. While he acknowledged the need to manage players ahead of the upcoming Test series, he questioned why Jaiswal could not have been included when a place was available.
Ashwin also expressed concern that the lack of opportunities could undermine Jaiswal’s confidence. He recalled the batter’s prolific run scoring in the past and stressed that the team management and selectors have a responsibility to support talented players by providing opportunities when possible.
The former spinner suggested that the selectors could have consulted Jaiswal about his availability for the final two matches rather than leaving him without international game time. He argued that there is no substitute for playing at the highest level and that regular opportunities are important for a young cricketer’s development.
Ashwin also questioned India’s long term opening plans for the 2027 World Cup. With Rohit Sharma potentially remaining in contention and young prospect Vaibhav Sooryavanshi emerging, he suggested that Jaiswal’s place in the future setup cannot be taken for granted.
Although Ashwin acknowledged that Jaiswal may need time to prepare for Test cricket, he maintained that this should not come at the cost of opportunities in other formats.
Calling Jaiswal a precious talent, Ashwin urged the selectors and team management to give the left handed opener greater consideration as India builds towards the next ODI World Cup.
