Yashasvi Jaiswal, the young dynamo of Indian cricket, finds himself at a fascinating crossroads. Despite being a batting powerhouse in the T20I format, his absence from the ODI squad has been a talking point for fans and experts alike. The intrigue deepens with the knowledge that his idol, Rohit Sharma, is still a key figure in the team’s plans for the next World Cup. So, what’s Jaiswal’s master plan?
Jaiswal’s ODI Conundrum
The exclusion of Yashasvi Jaiswal from India’s ODI squad for major tournaments like the Champions Trophy 2025, even after his explosive performances elsewhere, has raised many eyebrows . The selectors opted for other combinations, leaving the young opener to watch from the sidelines. This decision seems puzzling given his raw talent and fearless approach at the top of the order.
The Leg-Spin Gambit
Here’s where the plot thickens. In a surprising revelation, India’s batting coach Sitanshu Kotak confirmed that Jaiswal is not just waiting for his chance; he’s actively creating it. The left-handed batter has been diligently working on his leg-spin bowling in practice sessions . This move signals a potential transformation from a pure batter to a genuine all-rounder.
This isn’t a new skill he’s picking up on a whim. Leg-spin was a key part of Jaiswal’s game in his early days, and he’s now revisiting it with serious intent to add a new dimension to his game . The ability to chip in with a few overs of tricky leg-breaks could be the unique selling point that gives him an edge over other specialist batters vying for a spot.
Charting a Path Past the Hitman
Rohit Sharma, fondly known as the ‘Hitman,’ has been a mainstay at the top of India’s ODI batting order for over a decade. His experience and big-match temperament are invaluable. However, with an eye on the future, the team management is inevitably looking for a long-term successor.
Jaiswal’s strategy appears to be one of patience and preparation. By honing his leg-spin, he’s not just competing as another top-order batter; he’s offering the team a different kind of balance. In modern ODI cricket, where all-rounders are gold dust, this could be his golden ticket.
What the Coach Says
Batting coach Sitanshu Kotak has been vocal about Jaiswal’s readiness. He has stated that the young talent is fully prepared for the challenges of ODI cricket and is working tirelessly to add new skills to his arsenal . This official endorsement from the coaching staff is a strong indicator that Jaiswal is very much in their plans for the future.
The Road Ahead
The path to replacing a legend like Rohit Sharma is never straightforward. It requires not just talent, but impeccable timing and a unique skill set that fills a specific need in the team. Jaiswal’s dedication to mastering leg-spin could be that differentiating factor. It shows a maturity and a team-first attitude that selectors and coaches highly value.
While he may be on the bench for now, his secret weapon is being forged in the nets. The cricketing world is watching to see if this bold strategy will pay off and finally see Yashasvi Jaiswal break into India’s formidable ODI playing XI.