Is Yashasvi Jaiswal a Viable Option as India’s Opener for the Champions Trophy?
Before establishing himself as a dominant force in Test cricket, Yashasvi Jaiswal demonstrated his white-ball potential. At just 17, Jaiswal made his List A debut in September 2019 against Bangladesh U-23. The following month, in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, he turned heads with a stunning performance, amassing 564 runs in six innings, including a double century—making him the youngest player to achieve this feat in List A cricket.
Fast forward five years, Jaiswal has made significant strides in T20s and red-ball cricket, accumulating over 3,000 T20 runs at a strike rate of 150.23 and 3,682 First-Class runs at an average of 62.40. In Tests, his tally of 1,798 runs in 36 innings ranks among the best starts for India, behind only Virender Sehwag and Cheteshwar Pujara.
Still Waiting for an ODI Cap
With the Champions Trophy just a month away, India’s focus is shifting to the 50-over format. While Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill are likely to continue as openers despite their struggles in Australia, Jaiswal presents a compelling alternative. However, the southpaw, who has excelled in the long format, is yet to earn his ODI cap and hasn’t played a List A match since November 2022.
On paper, Jaiswal appears well-equipped to step in, should an opportunity arise in India’s Champions Trophy opener against Bangladesh on February 19 in Dubai. Yet, with Rohit and Gill boasting a strong 50-over partnership, it remains uncertain whether the selectors will take a bold step.
Is There Room for Jaiswal?
Jaiswal’s inclusion in the 2023 ODI World Cup squad was unlikely, given the team’s need for a backup left-handed wicketkeeper in Rishabh Pant’s absence. However, the 23-year-old has since shown remarkable maturity, making a strong case for a place in the Champions Trophy squad.
Rohit and Gill’s opening partnership has been productive, with 1,732 runs in 25 ODIs at an average of 72.16, including 16 fifty-plus stands. Gill, in particular, has impressed with an average of 58.20 and a strike rate of 101.74 in 48 ODIs.
There’s an opportunity to assess Jaiswal during the three ODIs against England in early February. If Gill falters in the first two games, it could open the door for Jaiswal, especially after Gill’s shaky performance in Tests.
The BCCI’s choice for vice-captain in the Champions Trophy could also provide clarity. Gill, who was vice-captain during the Sri Lanka ODIs last year, may face competition for the role. If relieved of the position, it strengthens the argument for Jaiswal to partner Rohit at the top of the order in Dubai.
Breaking the Right-Handed Batting Line-up
India’s current ODI line-up is heavily right-handed, with Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, and Hardik Pandya occupying Nos. 3-6. Introducing Jaiswal as an opener could add a left-handed option to disrupt the opposition’s plans, especially on spin-friendly Dubai tracks.
Head coach Gautam Gambhir experimented with left-handed floaters like Washington Sundar, Shivam Dube, and Axar Patel during the Sri Lanka tour. However, in a full-strength side, such flexibility may be limited. If India’s top six remains rigid, Jaiswal could replace Iyer, with Kohli anchoring at No. 3 and Rahul keeping wickets.
India’s struggles against spin in Sri Lanka will also weigh heavily on the selectors’ minds. On slower Dubai pitches, where the batting strike rate ranks among the lowest globally, Jaiswal’s left-handedness and adaptability could prove crucial.
A Strong Case for Inclusion
Given his skill set and form, Jaiswal offers more than just backup potential. His inclusion could enhance India’s batting depth, particularly against spin-heavy attacks. Whether the selectors take this calculated risk remains to be seen, but Jaiswal’s versatility makes him a valuable asset for the Champions Trophy.
