New Delhi: Former India spinner R Ashwin has questioned Yashasvi Jaiswal’s omission from India’s ODI squad for the upcoming New Zealand series, warning that the lack of international game time could affect the young opener’s confidence. Ashwin believes the selectors and team management must find opportunities for the left-hander, particularly after his recent run-scoring exploits.
The BCCI announced India’s ODI and Test squads for the New Zealand tour, but Jaiswal was left out of the 50-over setup. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin argued that the opener should have been considered for the final two ODIs, especially with Shubman Gill unavailable for those matches, noting that Jaiswal has had no game time at all.
Jaiswal has been named in India’s squad for the upcoming Test series against New Zealand and will also feature for India A in a three-match red-ball series beginning October 26 in Lincoln. However, Ashwin believes the focus on Test preparations should not come at the cost of opportunities in the other formats, emphasizing that regular match practice cannot be replaced.
Ashwin’s concern goes beyond one squad selection, as he believes the management needs to consider how a lack of regular international cricket could impact a young player who had been scoring consistently. He also suggested that Jaiswal’s batting had evolved over the past couple of years, making it crucial for him to receive the backing needed to find his rhythm.
Jaiswal has had limited opportunities in the 50-over format, but made a strong impression in his most recent appearance by scoring an unbeaten 110 off 86 balls against Afghanistan in June. For Ashwin, that innings and Jaiswal’s overall form make his current lack of playing time particularly frustrating as India builds towards the 2027 ODI World Cup.